UFC in Hot Water: Fighter Payouts Exposed Amidst Soaring Popularity!
UFC Faces Legal Troubles as Fighter Payouts are Scrutinized Amidst Rising Popularity
The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), despite its soaring popularity, finds itself embroiled in legal troubles, with a potential lawsuit and a spotlight on its fighter payouts. As UFC 270 approaches, promising thrilling matchups like Francis Ngannou vs. Ciryl Gane and Rafael Fiziev vs. Islam Makhachev, the organization is dealing with an ongoing antitrust lawsuit led by former fighters accusing it of suppressing fighter pay.
The 9th Circuit Court recently denied an appeal request from the UFC, potentially propelling the case towards a trial in 2024. The fighters allege that between 2010 and 2017, the UFC monopolized the market, suppressing their earnings. Potential legal damages are estimated to range from $800 million to $1.6 billion.
Unsealed documents have brought to light the earnings of some top fighters from 2011 to 2016. Notable payouts include Conor McGregor’s approximate $25 million earnings during this period, with $3,285,000 against Chad Mendes and $6,812,374 against Eddie Alvarez. Ronda Rousey earned sums such as $4,879,766 against Amanda Nunes and $4,476,662 against Holly Holm.
Other disclosed payouts include:
- Brock Lesnar: $3 million vs. Alistair Overeem, $8 million vs. Mark Hunt.
- Georges St-Pierre: $4,314,289 vs. Jake Shields, $3,555,344 vs. Johny Hendricks.
- Anderson Silva: $4,374,326 vs. Chris Weidman 2, $3,429,082 vs. Nick Diaz.
- Jon Jones: $3,637,500 vs. Daniel Cormier 1, $2,677,530 vs. Ovince St. Preux.
- CM Punk: $1,042,736 vs. Mickey Gall.
- BJ Penn: $400,000 vs. Jon Fitch, $475,000 vs. Nick Diaz.
- Demetrious Johnson: $245,000 vs. Henry Cejudo, $350,000 vs. Tim Elliott.
While the UFC continues to entertain millions with thrilling bouts, the controversy over fighter pay persists. Judge Boulware has expressed interest in fast-tracking the case. UFC’s legal representative remarked on the denied appeal, “We believe this case presents issues that deserve an immediate appeal.”
As fans anticipate the explosive bouts scheduled for UFC 270, the organization must simultaneously address the scrutiny regarding fighter compensation. The lawsuit, revealing stark contrasts in fighter earnings, alongside the excitement of upcoming fights, keeps the sports community eagerly tuned in to the developments.
