UFC has recently settled a $375 million antitrust lawsuit filed by former fighters dating back to 2014. The settlement was granted final approval by Nevada Judge Richard Boulware in U.S. District Court. The lawsuit, spearheaded by fighters such as Cung Le and Nate Quarry, alleged that UFC had established market control over fighters, leading to contract restrictions and limited competition.
Initially, a $335 million settlement was agreed upon between UFC and the fighters in March 2024. However, Judge Boulware rejected this proposal as it combined two individual lawsuits into one agreement. The case involved two class action suits led by Le and Kajan Johnson, covering fighters from different time periods.
In October 2024, a revised settlement of $375 million was reached and approved by Judge Boulware. This settlement exclusively benefits fighters in the Le class and does not require UFC to alter its contractual or business practices.
According to the fighters’ attorneys, the settlement will provide significant financial compensation to the fighters involved. Lead attorney Eric Cramer expressed pride in representing the fighters and stated that they would continue fighting for justice in the second antitrust lawsuit led by the Johnson class.
The second lawsuit is still ongoing, with experts speculating that a settlement may be reached before the case goes to trial. UFC has filed a motion to dismiss the case, but a ruling on this matter is pending. Overall, the resolution of the initial lawsuit marks a significant milestone in the fighters’ quest for fair treatment in the UFC. text to make it more concise:
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