Marshall Zelaznik returns to the helm of GLORY Kickboxing as CEO, almost exactly four years after leaving the position.
Zelaznik, who has extensive experience in the martial arts world, including his time with the UFC, which ended in October 2016 after being fired after WME-IMG (now Endeavor) acquired the UFC for more than $4 billion, is expected to return to action. I will assume the role of GLORY CEO immediately.
GLORY officials informed MMA Junkie of the move on Monday.
Zelaznik told MMA Junkie, “I'm happy to be back in martial arts and back at my old club, GLORY.” “I have been involved in esports for the last few years as CEO of Esports Engine, which was recently sold to ESL Faceit Group, which is owned by Savvy. So now is the perfect time to come back. I've always felt like I had unfinished business at GLORY, as my last run at GLORY ended due to the COVID-19 pandemic hitting us all.
“GLORY has endured for the past 12 years, but now we are about to take a big leap forward. I look forward to reconnecting with the team. They are doing a great job and my goal is to Our goal is to help drive the company's success and continued growth, and make our products even more accessible to fans around the world.”
GLORY's latest event took place on March 9th, with a one-night-only heavyweight grand prix tournament held in the Netherlands. Legendary kickboxing standout Rico Verhoeven won three matches in a row to become the Grand Prix Champion.
Zelaznik said GLORY plans to host more one-night Grand Prix events in 2024, likely featuring light heavyweight, middleweight and welterweight divisions.
The next promotional event, GLORY 91, will take place on April 27th at the Dome De Paris in France.
Kickboxing's global popularity has been volatile in recent years, but in Europe it's an undeniable attraction. Zelaznik's goal as CEO will be to take the GLORY brand to a new level.
“GLORY is the most exciting martial arts promotion on the planet,” Zelaznik said. “I believe that the possibilities are endless, and my goal is to ensure that we continue to promote the best fights, the best fights by the best fighters, and the most entertaining sport in the universe.” During our time apart, the GLORY team has done a great job of building awareness for our fans, our sport and our brand.”
Be sure to visit the MMA Junkie Instagram page and YouTube channel to discuss this and other content with mixed martial arts fans.
