#USA #Los Angeles #Ryan Kalil #Blake Griffin #Osos Monterrey

In an exciting development for the sports world, Ryan Kalil, a former All-Pro NFL center, and Blake Griffin, a celebrated NBA All-Star, have taken a major step by acquiring a controlling interest in an American football team in Mexico. This team, based in Monterrey, has been rebranded as the 'Osos Monterrey' and is set to shake up the landscape of American football in the region. This announcement, made on January 27, 2025, highlights the duo's ambitions to elevate the team's performance on the global stage as part of a collective effort that includes a host of other professional athletes. The team operates within the Liga de Fútbol Americano (LFA), which is gaining recognition and traction in Mexico, a country with a fervent following for American football—boasting around 30 million NFL enthusiasts. Such figures place Mexico among the premier international markets for the sport. Kalil expressed his commitment, stating, 'Football is not just a game; for many of us, it defines who we are.' He emphasized that this venture would not be a passive investment, but a proactive effort to grow the sport internationally amidst a passionate fan base. Joining Kalil and Griffin in their ownership group are several prominent professional athletes, including NFL All-Pro stars like Christian McCaffrey, George Kittle, and Luke Kuechly, among others. The presence of such high-profile athletes not only brings credibility to the project but also fosters a network of support for the team's development. The previous owners, Fabián Marcos and José Luis Domene, will retain minority stakes in the group, ensuring a smooth transition of management. Alejandro Jaimes Trujillo, commissioner of the LFA, remarked on the importance of this acquisition, stating, 'Today marks the beginning of a new era for American football in Mexico.' He shared confidence that Kalil and Griffin's involvement would not only bolster the Osos Monterrey but also propel the entire league forward. A primary initiative under this new ownership is a comprehensive rebranding of the team, formerly known as the Fundidores. The name 'Osos' (which translates to ‘Bears’) is inspired by the native black bears in the Sierra Madre mountains surrounding Monterrey. Griffin explained that the name symbolizes resilience and strength, reflecting both the character of the city and the qualities the team aspires to embody. Beyond ownership, Kalil and Griffin are also set to embark on a creative project through their production company, Mortal Media. They are collaborating with acclaimed filmmakers to produce a documentary that will chronicle the team’s transformation and their journey as new owners in a foreign league. This film aims to shed light on the challenges of operating a sports club outside the United States while highlighting the unwavering commitment of the fans, the perseverance of the coaches, and the determination of the players competing in a league that is carving out its identity. Kalil, who brings years of NFL experience to this venture, is not only recognized for his outstanding athletic career but is also a committed philanthropist with Mexican heritage, actively supporting housing initiatives in Mexico. Griffin, known for his impressive sports resume and entertaining personality, has established himself as a savvy entrepreneur, further driving the vision of Mortal Media. Osos Monterrey, founded in 2017, quickly made a name for itself in the LFA. The team has showcased its competitive spirit by securing its first championship in 2022, and with the fresh energy from its new owners, there are high hopes for future successes. Under the leadership of head coach Jorge 'Pelón' Valdez, the team has rapidly evolved into a formidable force in the league. In conclusion, as Kalil and Griffin step into their roles as owners of Osos Monterrey, they are poised to significantly impact both the team and the greater realm of American football in Mexico, fostering new partnerships and deepening community ties. The future looks promising as they embark on this new chapter, embracing the challenges and excitement that lie ahead.