MMA Legend Takes on Former Promotion in Multi-Million Dollar Lawsuit
Gegard Mousasi, a decorated champion in multiple MMA promotions, has filed a lawsuit against his former promotion, Bellator MMA, seeking damages of at least $15 million. The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court, accuses Bellator and its new owner, PFL, of freezing him out of competition due to a lucrative contract he signed in 2020.
A Lucrative Contract Turns Sour
Mousasi’s eight-fight extension with Bellator, worth $150,000 per fight, seemed like a dream come true. However, things took a turn for the worse when he fulfilled the first half of his contract by June 2022. Despite his efforts, Mousasi struggled to get Bellator to book him fights, leading him to accept a bout against Fabian Edwards in May 2023, which he lost due to injury.
Attempts to Resolve the Situation Fall Flat
Mousasi’s manager, Nima Safapour, made numerous attempts to increase his client’s activity, particularly after PFL’s purchase of Bellator. However, these efforts were met with silence, leading to a public fallout in May when Mousasi expressed his frustrations with Bellator’s new ownership. The company responded by releasing him later that month.
A Legendary Career Put on Hold
Mousasi, 39, has had an illustrious career, holding titles in Bellator, DREAM, Cage Warriors, and Strikeforce. He even fought in the UFC from 2013 to 2017, coming close to contending for a championship before signing with Bellator in 2017. The Netherlands-based fighter is now seeking justice for what he believes is a breach of contract and misclassification as an independent contractor rather than an employee.
PFL Executives Named in Lawsuit
Multiple PFL executives, including chairman Donn Davis and CEO Peter Murray, are named as defendants in the lawsuit. As the situation unfolds, one thing is clear: Mousasi is determined to fight for what he believes is rightfully his.
Leave a Reply