The XFL operated across three separate eras before merging with the USFL in 2023. The league launched in 2001, returned in 2020, and played its final standalone season in 2023. Here is the full timeline of how the XFL rose, fell, and transformed into the United Football League.
The Original XFL: 2001
Vince McMahon and NBC launched the XFL in February 2001. The league positioned itself as an alternative to the NFL with eight teams playing during the spring months. McMahon owned the league through the World Wrestling Federation, while NBC handled broadcasting.
The XFL introduced several innovations that later influenced other leagues. Cameras in locker rooms, player microphones, and the Skycam all debuted in XFL broadcasts. The league also eliminated the coin toss, replacing it with a scramble for the ball at midfield.
Ratings started strong but dropped quickly. The championship game between the Los Angeles Xtreme and San Francisco Demons drew 2.1 million viewers. Both NBC and McMahon lost $35 million each. The league folded after one season.
The 2020 Revival
McMahon announced plans to revive the XFL in January 2018. The league hired Oliver Luck as CEO and Commissioner. Eight teams began play on February 8, 2020, with games airing on ABC, ESPN, and Fox.
The DC Defenders, Houston Roughnecks, and St. Louis BattleHawks built strong fan bases in their markets. St. Louis averaged over 28,000 fans per game. The Roughnecks went 5-0 before the season stopped.
COVID-19 forced the XFL to suspend operations on March 12, 2020. The league filed for bankruptcy on April 13, 2020, ending the season after five weeks.
The Dwayne Johnson Era: 2023
Dwayne Johnson, Dany Garcia, and RedBird Capital purchased the XFL for $15 million in August 2020. The new ownership group spent two years rebuilding the league before returning to play.
The XFL kicked off its 2023 season on February 18. The league positioned itself as a developmental path to the NFL rather than a competitor. Players signed two-year contracts with opt-out clauses if NFL teams came calling.
The Arlington Renegades defeated the DC Defenders 35-26 in the 2023 XFL Championship. The league averaged 14,703 fans per game and drew steady television ratings on ESPN and Fox.
Football fans who followed the XFL often explored betting options during games. Many searched for nj sportsbook promos and other offers to place wagers on XFL matchups throughout the 2023 season.
The Merger and End of the XFL
On September 28, 2023, the XFL announced plans to merge with the USFL. The combined league became the United Football League, which began play in March 2024.
Four XFL teams survived the merger: the St. Louis Battlehawks, DC Defenders, Arlington Renegades, and San Antonio Brahmas. These teams now compete in the XFL Conference within the UFL.
The XFL was formally dissolved on October 7, 2025. The league’s innovations and fan bases continue through the UFL structure.
