Fighters prepare lawsuit against UFC and ask for compensation of R$272 million

Dana White (left) and Lorenzo Fertitta (center) during the announcement of the recent partnership with Reebok. Photo: Disclosure

Just weeks after announcing one of the biggest agreements in its history, with the million-dollar partnership with Reebok for exclusive sponsorship of sports equipment, the UFC may be about to suffer a serious blow. A press conference is scheduled for Tuesday night (16) that promises to give more details about a joint action prepared by Ultimate athletes and former athletes against the organization in the impressive amount of US$ 100 million (approximately R$ 272 million , at the current price).

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The information was released by the North American website “Bloody Elbow”. According to the publication, the lawsuit will be based on accusations that the UFC violated antitrust laws, abusing its “market power” to intentionally and systematically weaken and harm the free market. The millions of dollars requested relate to alleged reductions through such payment exchange practices, image rights fees for video games and various other sources of income.

Also according to the report, signed by journalists John Nash and Brent Brookhouse, there are several renowned fighters and former fighters among the signatories of the action, as well as their respective managers and agents, but their names will only be revealed at the press conference, in San Jose, in the US state of California. The action will be led by at least four large law firms specializing in cases involving antitrust laws.

So far, no UFC leader or person responsible has commented on the process or the holding of the press conference.