ONE Championship has terminated three high-ranking executives: Vice President and former UFC fighter Rich Franklin, Senior Vice President of Competition Matt Hume, and Chief Operating Officer John Sheler. The dismissals come as the organization continues to face financial difficulties and event cancellations. The promotion has been experiencing multiple concerning trends including fighter departures, reduced activity for remaining roster members, cancellations of major fights and events, and now the removal of key leadership. These developments raise questions about ONE Championship's future viability as one of the world's leading MMA promotions.
ONE Championship has let go of three senior figures in its leadership structure, the organization confirmed on April 16, 2026, as financial pressures continue to mount on the Singapore-based promotion.
The three departures span some of the most consequential roles in the company. Vice President Rich Franklin, Senior Vice President of Competition Matt Hume, and Chief Operating Officer John Sheler have all been terminated. The exits follow a period marked by fighter departures, reduced scheduling for active roster members, and the cancellation of major bouts and events.
Franklin, 51, brought considerable combat sports credibility to his executive role. The American fighter compiled a professional record of 29 wins and 7 losses during his career, competing out of Team Extreme as a southpaw with a six-foot-one frame and a 76-inch reach. Known for his output in the cage, Franklin averaged 4.1 significant strikes landed per minute with 44 percent striking accuracy, while also contributing on the grappling side with 1.31 takedowns per 15 minutes across his fighting career. His departure removes a recognizable and respected voice from the organization's front office.
Why it matters
- The simultaneous removal of three senior executives signals deeper organizational instability beyond routine restructuring
- The loss of Matt Hume, who oversaw competitive operations, raises immediate questions about the quality and consistency of matchmaking going forward
- Rich Franklin's exit strips the promotion of a high-profile fighter-turned-executive whose presence carried weight with both athletes and fans
- Continued event cancellations and roster attrition, now paired with leadership upheaval, cast serious doubt on ONE Championship's ability to maintain its standing among the world's top MMA promotions
