In the ongoing UFC antitrust lawsuit, further details are emerging about the behind-closed-doors business tactics employed by the promotion. The lawsuit aims to expose the UFC's alleged use of underhanded methods to prevent fighters from seeking better contracts with rival promotions.
While instances of fighters feeling pressured by the UFC have been recounted before, especially after matchmaker Joe Silva's departure, the latest information sheds light on the involvement of top executives.
Notably, a recent revelation includes a text message exchange between UFC owners Dana White and Lorenzo Fertitta during a period when fighters Gilbert Melendez and Eddie Alvarez sought to leave the promotion. The UFC managed to retain them through various contractual clauses.
In the revealed messages, White expresses his admiration for Fertitta's handling of the situation: “Bro, u know i love u to fukn death as it is but what u pulled off this week with Melendez and 'other dude' is fukn BAD ASS! Fukn cutthroat nasty business like u see in movies!!”
Fertitta responds, "We gotta keep taking these f—rs oxygen till they tap out. We have sacrificed too much to let anyone get traction now.”
White enthusiastically agrees, stating, “I agree! U r 100% correct and i LOVE IT.”
These messages come on the heels of an earlier email exchange revealing Joe Silva's negotiation tactics with Nate Diaz's team, planning to potentially lowball Diaz with a new contract or threaten to have him fight out his current deal on the prelims against a tough opponent.
The ongoing lawsuit continues to unveil the inner workings of the UFC's negotiation strategies and their impact on fighters' contractual situations.