The class-action anti-trust lawsuit (Le, et al vs Zuffa LLC) against the UFC has been progressing slowly, with a $335 million settlement for over 1,100 athletes first agreed to by both parties before the judge presiding over the case rejected the settlement.
Recently the settlement was resubmitted for approval at an increased price tag of $375 million. Now, fighters who are part of the plaintiff class have written and submitted declarations as part of the request for preliminary approval from the man presiding over the case, Judge Boulware.
Although many of the details given – trials and tribulations that fighters go through after they can no longer compete – are harrowing, they are not being used to win the lawsuit.
Many of the fighters who provided statements say that winning the lawsuit would be great, but it would take many years to accomplish and is no sure thing. These fighters – many of whom are living paycheck to paycheck or even have no stable residence – say they need money to survive now, not later.
some quotes from some of the fighter declarations. This is some sad reading. https://t.co/c1k8aZpBF6 pic.twitter.com/h1mqTAxfJG
— John S. Nash (@heynottheface) October 7, 2024
John S. Nash was first to report on the new memorandum, acquired directly from the United States District Court for Nevada.
Some of the notable fighters with witness statements include Wanderlei Silva, Shane Carwin, and Sean Spencer. Nate Quarry and Cung Le, two of the original fighters who filed the suit way back in 2014, also submitted statements.
Some of the tragic circumstances listed include potentially needing to file for bankruptcy and disability to survive (Cung Le), being unable to work as an engineer due to brain trauma despite having a degree (Shane Carwin), lack of any medical coverage (Nate Quarry, et al), and not even being able to keep the lights on/provide for their children (Sean Spencer).
Perhaps the most notable declaration came from Wanderlei Silva, a beloved former PRIDE FC Champion who set numerous records there, including longest winning streak, most wins, and most knockouts in the promotion's history. 'The Axe Murderer' details the traumatic injuries he has all over body and no way to pay for health-care, as well as having a hard time keeping a roof over his head and food on his table. As one of the all-time beloved legends of the sport, one would hope he would be able to enjoy a cushy retirement, but it is not so.
US District Court of Nevada
Whatever Judge Boulware decides, it's clear that drastic change is needed to support these fighters who sacrificed their body and brains for fan entertainment, with a health-care plan being among the bare minimum necessities that are not currently offered to fighters in the billion-dollar UFC promotion.
