XFL: ‘discussions with the CFL did not ultimately lead to a collaboration’

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The XFL will push forward without any formal arrangement with the CFL.

The 2022 XFL season had been put on hold pending the outcome of the conversations with the CFL. Following the joint decision by both leagues not to pursue any partnership, the XFL announced its plans to hit the field in 2023.

“While our discussions with the CFL did not ultimately lead to a collaboration, the effort reinforced our belief and commitment to developing the XFL for international spring football. We look forward to seeing everyone for kickoff in spring of 2023,” the XFL said in a statement obtained by reporter Mike Mitchell.

The owners from both leagues had agreed to work together in March to identify opportunities for both to innovate and grow the game of football. The Rock stated at the time he was excited for the ‘unique opportunity’ the CFL and XFL ‘can potentially create together.’

The most recent incarnation of the XFL lasted just five games before the COVID-19 pandemic put their season on hold, which led to Vince McMahon filing for bankruptcy and selling.

Dwayne Johnson, Dany Garcia and RedBird Capital were selected as the winning bidders last August for all of the assets of Alpha Entertainment LLC, the parent company of the XFL. It cost $15 million and the goal is to make the XFL a stable league in the future.

The original XFL lasted one full season in 2001.