The trial date has now been scheduled for early 2025 in the class action lawsuit brought against the UFC by MMA fighters. The athletes allege that the promotion has suppressed wages through coercive practices, a development that comes after an earlier proposed settlement was rejected this year. U.S. District Judge Richard F. Boulware II set the trial to commence on February 3rd following a Monday hearing.
UFC Fighters’ $335M Wage Suit
The proposed settlement was initially reached in March wherein the fighters and parent company TKO Group Holdings would resolve claims accusing UFC of employing anti-competitive contracts and tactics designed to curb competition and decrease compensation. As part of the deal, UFC had consented to pay $335 million to settle allegations asserting fighter pay was reduced by up to $1.6 billion.
However, in July the judge declined to approve the settlement during discussions the previous month where he expressed a desire for settlements providing “life-changing” rewards for athletes who have endured over a decade of litigation. Though Judge Boulware did not immediately reveal his rationale, he noted an explanation would soon follow. Despite this setback, sources say the parties remain open to settling before the 2025 trial date.
