A shocking development in the world of combat sports has just unfolded, leaving fans and industry insiders alike in a state of disbelief. The Florida court's decision to award Jorge Masvidal a whopping $5 million in his lawsuit against Fanmio has sent shockwaves through the MMA and boxing communities.
But here's where it gets controversial...
Andreas Hale, a combat sports reporter for ESPN, brings us the details of this explosive legal battle. In a recent ruling, a Florida judge granted Masvidal, a UFC veteran, a default judgment of over $5 million in his lawsuit against Fanmio, the online platform that promoted his highly anticipated 2024 boxing match against Nate Diaz.
Judge Beatrice Butchko Sanchez officially signed off on Masvidal's request, bringing an end to this chapter of the legal saga. The arbitrator's decision awarded the former BMF champion a substantial sum of $5,315,268.64, along with additional post-judgment interest from the fight.
Masvidal initiated the lawsuit in January, claiming that his agreement with Fanmio for the Diaz fight included a purse of $6 million, with an additional $1 million bonus if he emerged victorious. However, Masvidal suffered a loss by decision and later alleged that his only payments were a $150,000 advance and a $1 million payment.
The arbitrator's ruling sided with Masvidal, and with the judge's final approval, this matter has been laid to rest. But the controversy doesn't end there. Fanmio is still entangled in legal battles with other fighters.
Nate Diaz, Masvidal's opponent in the boxing match, filed a lawsuit against Fanmio just two weeks after Masvidal's, claiming he was owed over $9 million. An arbitrator awarded Diaz $6 million, plus attorney fees, but that case is still awaiting the judge's final sign-off.
And this is the part most people miss... In March, Fanmio turned the tables and filed a lawsuit against Golden Boy Promotions and Ryan Garcia over a canceled exhibition match with Rukiya Anpo, which was scheduled for December 31, 2024. Garcia opted to fight Rolando Romero in May instead.
The legal battles surrounding these combat sports events have captivated the attention of fans and raised questions about the financial dealings within the industry.
So, what do you think? Is this a fair outcome for Masvidal, or does it set a concerning precedent? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let's discuss the implications of this ruling on the future of combat sports and athlete compensation.
