The Legal Submission Newsletter 3
Update on UFC Antitrust Lawsuit, Review of UFC 257 and Ratings
Update on the UFC lawsuit
The Parties in the UFC Antitrust Lawsuit are getting ancy. While the Plaintiffs have suggested the Court issue its Class Certification ruling without a decision on the release of documents, Zuffa would prefer that not happen. What we can gather at least is that Zuffa (no surprise) will appeal the anticipated Class Certification decision which will grant class cert to the ‘Bout Class’ defined by Plaintiffs.
UFC 257 draws big PPV numbers
Roots of Fights announced a collaboration with Conor McGregor.
UFC 257 took place this past Saturday in Abu Dhabi. Despite technical difficulties, the telecast was a success drawing 1.2M viewers domestically and another 400K internationally. It would make it the highest-selling PPV since UFC 229. In the main event, Dustin Poirier scored a 2nd round KO of Conor McGregor. The loss sets the former two-division champ back as he attempts to right his career after some notably legal troubles. The win should set Poirier up for a shot at the UFC lightweight title.
Ratings the week of January 18, 2021
UFC Fight Night on ESPN: Fight Island on Wednesday morning drew 244K. Notably, the event occurred opposite the Inauguration.
Opposite UFC 257, Showtime Boxing drew between 150K-160K fans.
UFC 257 Prelims drew 1.4M viewers, highest since last February for a Prelims broadcast on ESPN.
WWE Friday Night Smackdown drew an avg of 2.28M viewers this past Friday.
ICYMI
UFC consolidated two of its big loans which saves the company money.
The Interview with Stephen Marrocco
What happened to Dana White’s video?
As always, you can check out more information at MMAPayout.com