Joana (left) said that Belfort (right) fights for a “hobby”. Photo: Reproduction
The contract between the UFC and Reebok for exclusive supply of sporting equipment for the next few years was seen as a watershed in the history of MMA, as it represents an agreement never seen before, but it has also been the target of harsh criticism, especially from fighters and businesspeople. This Tuesday (10), former player Ronaldo Fenômeno announced that his agency, “9ine”, cut ties with Ultimate due to the limitations imposed by the new business format and received the support of his wife and agent. Vitor belfort, Joana Prado.
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“As a businesswoman, I understand 9ine’s position in leaving the UFC. Vitor lost millions a year because of the new sponsorship policy. Thank God he is an athlete who goes beyond the octagon and has other businesses. Fighting became a hobby, but like other fighters he was greatly harmed by this new business model”, said Joana, in an interview with the “ESPN Brasil” channel website. “We have a great relationship with Ronaldo, (his partner, Marcus) Buaiz and the entire 9ine team and we wish them success,” he added.
The contract between UFC and Reebok came into force last July and, among other requirements, limits the organization's right to image of fighters throughout the fight week, which means that exhibitions by personal sponsors and the use of of equipment that is not provided by the sports equipment brand. In the case of Vitor, for example, this meant it was impossible to expose the brand of some of its historical partners, such as RVCA and SKY, in the fight against Dan Henderson No. UFC Sao Paulo, last weekend.
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