UFC Parent Company Settles Antitrust Lawsuits with Former Fighters for $335 Million

TKO Group Holdings the parent company of UFC has reached a settlement in two antitrust lawsuits filed by former UFC fighters. The settlement, finalized on March 13 involves TKO Group paying out $335 million as per an SEC filing. These lawsuits stemmed from allegations that Zuffa, UFC predecessor entity violated antitrust laws by underpaying fighters and engaging in actions to stifle competition from other MMA promoters.

The initial lawsuit, filed in 2014 by fighters including Cung Le, Nate Quarry and Jon Fitch accused Zuffa of monopolizing the market for elite professional MMA fighter services. Subsequently, additional lawsuits were filed culminating in over 1,200 fighters being involved in the class-action suit. A trial originally scheduled for April 15 anticipated damages totaling $1.6 billion. The settlement brings an end to the litigation pending court approval of the final terms.