July 22, 2024 Observer Newsletter: WWE & AEW prepare for major summer shows, UFC class action lawsuit still in legal limbo
Our subscribers can now read this week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter with a lead story on the latest developments on the ongoing class action lawsuit against the UFC that is still not settled.
“After a second hearing on 7/12, Judge Richard Boulware once again failed to sign off on the $335 million settlement in the Cung Le and Kajan Johnson lawsuits against UFC.
Boulware gave the indication he would make his final decision on 7/19, which would either be to sign off on the settlement or to not agree to do so and basically force both sides into a trial neither side wants.
Based on reports from those in the courtroom as the discussions were taking place, notably MMA reporter Joss Gross, it was very clear Boulware wasn’t happy with the terms of the settlement.
Boulware felt the total settlement number was far too low and also felt that the settlement shouldn’t combine the two lawsuits together. Eric Cramer, the lead attorney in both cases, argued that the number was the highest they could get UFC to agree to.
Boulware was convinced of the merits of the case and believed a jury would award a far higher number for damages to the fighters based on UFC dominating the sport and using that domination to keep salaries down, and particularly with treble damages from the antitrust aspect of the suit.”
This week’s issue also includes the following:
- A look at how both WWE & AEW are preparing for major summer stadium shows in August.
- AJ Styles and IYO SKY’s respective returns to Japan last weekend
- A look at the kickoff for the NJPW G1 tournament
- More developments in the Janel Grant vs. Vince McMahon lawsuit