The UFC has reached a $375 million settlement in the antitrust lawsuit initiated by fighters, including Cung Le. The suit accused the UFC of suppressing fighter wages and monopolizing the MMA market, a battle that has stretched on for nearly a decade. The settlement marks a significant shift for fighters in the Le class, as they will finally see financial compensation. Initially, a $335 million settlement was proposed but rejected by the presiding judge, leading to this updated agreement.
Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
While the Le case finds resolution, another legal battle remains. Kajan Johnson and his co-plaintiffs are still awaiting closure, as their case has yet to be settled. A motion to dismiss the Johnson case is pending, leaving fighters with lingering uncertainty.
“While we believe the original settlement was fair — a sentiment that was also shared by Plaintiffs — we feel it is in the best interest of all parties to bring this litigation to a close,” the UFC gave a statement to the public.
The antitrust lawsuits have put a spotlight on fighter pay and UFC’s control over the market. This settlement may open the door for more fighters to seek better contracts and fairer wages. However, with Johnson’s case unresolved, there’s still more to be seen in the future of MMA’s legal landscape.
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