The Professional Fighters League has put its season on hold indefinitely due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The mixed martial arts promotion was expected to begin competition in May. CEO Peter Murray said the PFL made the decision to safeguard its fighters' health.

"We are adjusting our plan for the rest of this year and look forward to starting our next season as soon as it is feasible," Murray said. "We are committed to continuing to evolve and grow the sport of MMA."

The PFL was known as the World Series of Fighting until 2017. Its competition format includes a regular season, a postseason and a championship event, making it unique in MMA.

The promotion hadn't announced a definite schedule for 2020 but has typically begun its seasons in late spring. Last year, the promotion staged six regular-season events, three playoff events and a championship event on New Year's Eve.

The PFL has showcased and launched the careers of several MMA stars, including Justin Gaethje, David Branch, Jon Fitch, Marlon Moraes and current featherweight champion Lance Palmer. Two-time Olympic judo gold medalist Kayla Harrison is its current lightweight champion.