UFC Faces Legal Win with £281M Settlement Approval

UFC has received preliminary approval from a judge for its £281 million settlement in one of two legal cases involving hundreds of former fighters. These fighters claimed that the UFC’s contracts hindered their ability to negotiate other promotional opportunities. Meanwhile, the TKO Group which owns both the UFC and WWE previously had one settlement rejected but secured approval for this latest agreement reached in September from Judge Richard Boulware.

The lawsuit originated in 2014, filed by former fighter Cung Le and encompasses fighters who competed in the UFC from 2010 to 2017. The UFC welcomed the decision, describing it as “welcome news for both parties.” Furthermore, Eric Cramer, the lead attorney for the plaintiffs, expressed his satisfaction, stating, “It is a monumental achievement that will provide significant relief to hundreds of deserving MMA fighters.”

He commended the plaintiffs who fought for this outcome over the last decade and expressed anticipation for pursuing further changes and damages in a second antitrust case against the UFC. In addition, a separate lawsuit, Johnson v. Zuffa, remains active in court and extends its coverage to fighters up to the present day. This case seeks to implement permanent changes to UFC contracts and business practices.

Collectively, the antitrust lawsuits have sought damages amounting to $1.6 billion (£1.25 billion). Moreover, in a significant development, the UFC merged with World Wrestling Entertainment in 2023 to form the TKO Group. This merger, along with the ongoing legal proceedings, underscores the persistent tensions and the evolving landscape of the combat sports industry as fighters advocate for better rights and business practices within the UFC’s framework.