Judge Richard Boulware has given final approval to a $375 million settlement in an antitrust lawsuit against the UFC, initially filed in 2014 by fighters alleging monopolistic practices, with funds now set to be distributed to the athletes involved, while a second related lawsuit remains ongoing.
Judge Richard Boulware just gave the green light to a $375 million settlement in an antitrust lawsuit against the UFC. This case has been simmering since 2014.
Back in October, fighters and the UFC shook hands on an agreement. Boulware initially nodded in approval, but now it’s official—money’s ready to flow to the athletes involved.
Fighters like Cung Le and Nate Quarry kicked off this legal battle in 2014. They accused the UFC of monopolizing elite MMA fighter services through exclusive contracts, coercion, and strategic acquisitions.
This lawsuit covers fighters from 2010 to 2017. Meanwhile, another case for those from 2017 onwards is still in the works.
Originally, a $335 million settlement was proposed back in March 2024. It was supposed to wrap up both lawsuits.
But the judge wasn’t having it. He felt that payout was too low and pointed out that fighters in the second lawsuit might push back against arbitration clauses.
After agreeing on $375 million, the UFC spoke up about closing this chapter. “Today’s decision is welcome news,” they said last October. “We’re glad to be nearing the end of the Le case.”
During Thursday’s session, UFC lawyers urged fighters to claim their share of the settlement money.
How much each athlete gets depends on legal fees and their number of bouts during the class action period. It’s still being sorted out.
Initially, lawyers for the fighters estimated payouts. On average, athletes could pocket $250,000 after fees.
Some would see over a million dollars; nearly 100 fighters might get more than $500,000. More than 200 could recover over $250,000; over 500 might net above $100,000; and nearly 800 would get over $50,000. A life-changing sum for many families.
The second lawsuit is still winding through courtrooms. A separate settlement might emerge, but for now, both sides gear up for a potential trial.