ONE Championship has dismissed three key executives from its leadership team: vice president and former UFC fighter Rich Franklin, senior vice president of competitions Matt Hume, and chief operating officer John Schieler. The dismissals come amid ongoing financial difficulties for the promotion, which has been canceling events and experiencing fighter departures. The post suggests that ONE Championship may not be able to continue functioning as one of the world's leading MMA promotions for much longer. Key fighters are leaving, those who remain are fighting infrequently, and major fights and events continue to be canceled. The situation raises concerns about the organization's long-term viability.
ONE Championship has parted ways with three senior executives as the Asian MMA promotion continues to navigate a deepening financial crisis, with the departures announced on April 16, 2026.
Among those dismissed is Rich Franklin, the former UFC middleweight champion who had been serving as a vice president with the organization. Franklin, 51, is an American fighter who compiled a professional record of 29-7-0 during his career, earning a reputation as one of the sport's more well-rounded competitors. Standing six-foot-one with a 76-inch reach, he averaged 4.1 significant strikes per minute with 44 percent striking accuracy and added a consistent takedown threat at 1.31 per 15 minutes. Franklin joined ONE Championship in an executive capacity after retiring from competition. Also let go were Matt Hume, senior vice president of competitions, and John Schieler, who had been serving as chief operating officer. Hume is a well-known figure in MMA, particularly in Asia, having worked as both a trainer and matchmaker.
Why it matters
- The dismissal of three senior figures at once signals serious organizational instability at one of the world's largest MMA promotions.
- ONE Championship has already been canceling events and losing fighters, raising questions about its ability to maintain a competitive roster.
- The loss of experienced executives like Hume, who has deep ties to Asian MMA, could further complicate the promotion's operational and competitive direction.
- Fighter activity has slowed considerably, with reports suggesting marquee matchups are being shelved alongside the broader financial difficulties.
The cumulative effect of event cancellations, fighter departures, and now leadership losses paints a concerning picture for ONE Championship's standing as a global MMA force.
