UFC: In a significant development for the world of mixed martial arts (MMA), approximately 1,200 fighters have come together to file a class-action lawsuit against the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and its president, Dana White. The lawsuit, which was originally filed in 2010, has recently been granted class-action status by U.S. District Judge Richard Boulware. The fighters allege that the UFC has engaged in a range of illegal business practices that have deprived them of fair compensation for their labor, considering the risks and costs they undertake.
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UFC Fighters File Lawsuit Against UFC
The class period covers fighters who competed in live professional UFC-promoted MMA bouts in the United States between December 2010 and June 2017.
According to the plaintiffs, Zuffa, the Nevada-based company that does business as the UFC, has exploited its market power to acquire or impede rival promoters and has enforced exclusive contracts to prevent fighters from competing outside the UFC.
The plaintiffs also claim that the UFC has suppressed fighters’ compensation for bouts.
Eric Cramer, chairman of Berger Montague and one of the lead attorneys representing the class, stated, “The UFC pays its fighters only 20% of its event revenues, when boxing and other major sports pay well above 50%.”
The class-action certification represents a significant victory for the fighters, who have been seeking justice and fair treatment for several years. Despite Boulware’s decision, the UFC has announced its intention to appeal the ruling.
In response to the certification, the UFC released a statement via its lead counsel, William A. Isaacson, expressing its plans to contest the decision. The promotion remains steadfast in defending itself against the allegations put forth by the fighters.
The legal battle between the UFC and the fighters is expected to continue, with the plaintiffs seeking damages ranging from $800 million to $1.6 billion.
However, Boulware did not grant certification for the “identity class” part of the lawsuit, which pertains to claims regarding suppressed licensing fees associated with identity rights.
As the lawsuit progresses, it will undoubtedly shed light on various aspects of the MMA industry and its treatment of fighters.
It remains to be seen how the court proceedings will unfold and what impact this class-action lawsuit will have on the landscape of professional MMA.
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