The British-based Global Fighters Association calls itself a union to provide support for participants in all combat sports. Here is its mission statement, taken from its homepage: "The launch of the Global Fighters’ Association in 2025 represents a historic step forward for combat sports. By achieving parity with other professional athletes in a year 1 broadcast and ticketing agreement, the GFA will not only secure a level playing field for fighters to that enjoyed by other athletes, it will have the ability to start tackling universal challenges faced by combat sport participants globally. Our members will be from all backgrounds, cultures and ages; from enthusiasts at the local gym to fighters of all abilities and genders, coaches, and managers, to elite level world champions. We will engage positively with all stakeholders, from media to promoters, broadcasters and boards of control, to government level sports representatives, to combat sport related charities and rights organizations.

"Our priorities are to improve health and safety at work, create educational programs to drive future engagement and youth activities including after school clubs and the development of academies, provide employment to retired professionals, advocate for fairer contracts and improved pay and benefits, provide access to insurance, pensions, legal and financial advice and retirement planning.

"The GFA is committed to fostering a global community of fighters passionate about elevating the sports’ standards. Combat sport remains one of the only professional sectors with little regulation and no unionised representation. The GFA will fight for its members, seek to empower and protect them, ensure their voices are heard and their rights are recognised and respected. We will be an organisation dedicated to advocating for fair treatment, improved working conditions and enhanced health and safety measures.
Our Commitment To Unity

"We understand that the challenges faced by fighters are universal, regardless of discipline or location.By standing together, we will amplify our collective strength and create a global community of support. As a member of the Global Fighters Association, you gain access to a wide range of benefits and services. As an amateur, benefits will include improvements in health and safety standards, better training conditions for female fighters, regular seminars, events and online forums."

GFA's Year One Initiatives

    Introducing comprehensive and standardised health and safety reforms across the industry, modernising the environment and making it more fit for purpose for areas of significant growth such as women’s boxing.

    Promoting diversity and inclusion by creating safer environments, promoting better experiences and more inclusive opportunities, particularly for women and LGBTQ+ participants or those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

    Providing educational initiatives, including youth and after-school clubs, that utilize top-level professionals—ranging from world-class former champions and coaches to leaders in sporting media and education—to promote bespoke campaigns highlighting the physical, mental, and social health benefits of combat sports training for young people.

    Advocating for fair pay and better working conditions for all workers within the combat sport industries, from athletes to coaches to managers and other professionals who rely on the sport for their living but are not currently represented by a trade union.

    Providing competitive benefits: offering members protections and resources on par with athletes and workers in other major sports including insurance, pensions and free legal and accounting advice.

GFA Benefits

For professional fighters benefits will include:

Representation and Advocacy -- We fight for your rights, both inside and outside the ring, will help with legal and financial advice, contractual and negotiation support, better pay and the introduction of benefits such as medical and life insurance, pensions, retirement planning, and medical support. We will seek to negotiate with broadcasters and promoters to secure standard benefits already enjoyed by many other sports professionals.

Legal Assistance -- The GFA will offer access to legal resources and guidance to help navigate the often complex legal landscape within combat sports, particularly within boxing and MMA. Our legal team is experienced in contract negotiations, dispute resolution and in protecting the rights of its members.

Health and Safety Support -- Our members’ well-being is our top priority. We will work closely with industry leaders and gym operators to ensure the highest standards of safety and medical care become standard. Through our partnerships, we will provide access to better healthcare, concussion management programs and mental health support.

Education and Training -- The GFA believes in continuous learning and growth. We will offer educational programs, workshops and seminars to empower fighters with knowledge about their rights, financial health and career development opportunities within combat sports.

Networking and Community -- Joining the GFA is your gateway to a vibrant community of current and former world level fighters who are passionate about improving their sport. You will be able to connect with like-minded individuals, attend exclusive events, and participate in seminars led by renowned household name fighters and industry leaders.