UFC Reacts To Formation Of MMA Athletes Association

Earlier this week it was reported that a ‘redefining’ announcement would be made today (Nov. 30, 2016) by a group of fighters led by former longtime UFC welterweight champion Georges St. Pierre and former Bellator CEO Bjorn Rebney.

Speculation immediately turned to the idea that the group, which consists of St. Pierre as well as Tim Kennedy, TJ Dillashaw, Donald Cerrone, and Cain Velasquez, would be forming a fighters’ union, and while they haven’t necessarily done that, they have indeed formed what they called the Mixed Martial Arts Athletes Association (MMAAA).

The group, which will focus solely on UFC fighters for the time being, will aim to improve conditions and pay for not only current fighters, but former fighters and future fighters as well.

Oddly enough, the board didn’t release many details regarding their plans, but the UFC reacted to the news nonetheless (Via MMAFighting):

“We respect all of our athletes and are always open and willing to hear their thoughts on how to improve the sport,” a UFC official said.

Rebney, who will serve as an advisor to the group, said during a conference call earlier today that the members have yet to reach out to the UFC and that they don’t plan to at this time.

Stay tuned to LowKickMMA as more news on the situation unfolds.