A group of 52 UFC fighters, including former champions, submitted statements detailing physical and financial hardships in support of a $375 million antitrust lawsuit settlement, with Judge Richard Boulware expected to rule soon on the case covering fighters from 2010 to 2017, while a second lawsuit for fighters from 2017 onwards is still pending.
With the UFC antitrust lawsuit settlement decision looming, a group of 52 fighters has submitted statements. They’re pushing for the courts to approve a $375 million payout. Judge Richard Boulware in Nevada is expected to rule soon on this preliminary agreement.
This case, filed back in 2014, covers fighters who competed from 2010 to 2017. Meanwhile, a second lawsuit for fighters from 2017 onwards is still in progress. A separate settlement might occur before it goes to trial.
Among the latest supporters are former UFC champions like Carla Esparza and Renan Barao. Felice Herrig, a retired strawweight competitor, provided an especially detailed response. She fought five times during the period covered by the first lawsuit.
In her statement, Herrig described severe physical and financial hardships. “Fighting for the UFC was my dream,” she wrote, “but I left with a worn-down body and severe depression.” She continues to battle these issues today.
Herrig went into debt funding her fight camps, borrowing money from family. Often, she had to fight injured just to pay off debts. Fighters face tough choices: take risky fights or endure periods without income.
Weight cutting was another struggle for Herrig. Her ideal fighting weight was 125 pounds, but divisions didn’t align with that. She had to cut down to 115 pounds, enduring grueling processes that took a toll on her health.
Jessica Eye, another retired fighter, shared her post-career struggles. Fighting left her with significant injuries and concerns about traumatic brain injury (TBI). Symptoms like anxiety and memory loss have plagued her since retirement.
Eye spent 32 days hospitalized for PTSD and TBI treatment. She’s struggled to adapt to life after fighting, facing challenges with basic expenses and health insurance costs. Weight cuts also caused permanent damage to her body.
Gina Mazany echoed similar concerns about weight cuts affecting her future fertility. After cutting from 163 pounds to 136 pounds on short notice, she fears lasting damage. Her menstrual cycle took months to normalize post-cut.
Mazany also faced issues with surgery coverage after leaving the UFC. Despite needing surgery for a crushed septum, coverage was denied because it wasn’t broken during her last fight. She still can’t afford the procedure.
Joe Riggs revealed he underwent numerous surgeries throughout his career—23 in total! From nasal surgeries to retina detachments and concussions, his list is extensive. He’s worried about TBI symptoms like irritability and memory loss.
Alexander Yakovlev spoke about long-term health problems stemming from weight cuts. In 2015, a particularly challenging cut led to cardiovascular and nervous system issues. His health never fully recovered, impacting his career trajectory.
Many fighters share similar stories of financial and physical struggles persisting long after their careers end. Attorneys have submitted over 150 testimonials from past and present athletes to sway the judge’s decision on the settlement.
The proposed settlement could see fighters recovering an average of $250,000 after fees and costs are deducted. These testimonies aim to highlight the ongoing impact of their careers on their lives today.