New UFC Antitrust Lawsuits Target Fighter Contracts

The UFC is facing two new federal antitrust class-action lawsuits from former fighters Misha Cirkunov and Phil Davis, each challenging the promotion's restrictive contracts that allegedly suppress fighter pay and stifle industry competition. Cirkunov's suit specifically targets arbitration clauses and class-action waivers in UFC contracts, seeking both monetary damages and the right for fighters to pursue collective legal action. In contrast, Davis's lawsuit is focused solely on obtaining injunctive relief to force changes in UFC business practices, without seeking financial compensation. Both cases are represented by attorneys who previously litigated major antitrust actions against the UFC. These lawsuits follow the recent $375 million Le v. Zuffa settlement and aim to further challenge the UFC's market dominance. The legal actions could have significant implications for fighter rights and the competitive landscape of professional MMA.