The UFC Encourages Fighters Against Joining Unions

Fighter treatment, fighter pay, and fighter contracts all seem to be issues that are being brought up more and more in today’s crazy world of mixed martial arts (MMA). As a result, there have been talks of starting a fighter’s union in order to fix some of these issues, and gain better conditions for the combatants.

Although these talks have gone on for quite some time, the idea may finally be coming to fruition as the Teamsters Union, and the Culinary Workers Union have expressed interest in helping the fighters.

So how does the UFC feel about this? Well, the company is obviously against the idea which isn’t a surprise. The promotion actually recently sent out an email (Via Bloody Elbow) to all of their athletes, advising them to say “no” to the unions.

The email warns fighters that by signing with the union, the fighters could actually lose control of their own contract negotiations:

Message from UFC

Dear Athletes, Based on the recent announcement by the unions claiming they want to organize UFC athletes, we suspect they will be asking you to sign a “union card”. So we thought there were a few things you’d want to consider about possible unionization. Will the Teamsters Union and Culinary Workers Union 226 Really Look Out for Your Best Interests? Joining the Teamsters Union and Culinary Workers Union 226 could change everything. To begin with, the unions want to treat you like an employee, which could cause you to lose the advantages and benefits of being an independent contractor. Also, your career and professional life could be turned over to union bosses who have no idea what it takes to be a mixed martial arts athlete. The unions say they want to help you organize, but what does that really mean for you?  If you sign a union card:

• Teamsters Union and Culinary Workers Union 226 could use your signed union card to actually limit your bargaining power. They could assume complete control as your exclusive bargaining representative and spokesperson, completely restricting your important voice during contract negotiations. They could be in control, not you.

• Being a part of their union could force you to be completely submissive to union bosses and individuals who have not spent a day in the mixed martial arts business. Ultimately, a union could determine who you can and cannot fight, and how often you fight. They could be in control, not you. Sincerely, Kirk D. Hendrick Zuffa, LLC, dba Ultimate Fighting Championship Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer

• Obviously the fighters do not want to lose their contract rights, but it also seems as if many are not happy with their current conditions. Would a union really hurt the fighters, or is the UFC just looking out for themselves?
• If you value your voice and independence, we encourage you to reject the unions. Let your voice be heard and say “No” to the unions.  And in case you still don’t believe the unions have their own agenda, take a minute to read this editorial from the Las Vegas Review-Journal newspaper: Click Here