A leaked electronic mail from March 2016, written by WME govt Brent Richard, sheds gentle on considerations and dangers surrounding UFC President Dana White’s future and challenges confronted by the promotion. The e-mail, unearthed within the ongoing UFC anti-trust lawsuit, was a part of the lender presentation earlier than WME acquired the UFC in 2016.
Titled “Dangers and Mitigants,” the e-mail mentioned numerous matters, with the second level addressing potential dangers, together with “Damage, loss of life, CTE, and many others.” This displays the rising consciousness of well being and questions of safety, significantly associated to continual traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), in fight sports activities.
Whereas CTE had not been formally identified in a UFC fighter at the moment, the e-mail acknowledged the likelihood and highlighted the significance of discussing it. The UFC had beforehand emphasised its dedication to athlete well being and security, showcasing partnerships with organizations just like the U.S. Anti-Doping Company and the Cleveland Clinic for a head trauma research.
The e-mail additionally touched on Dana White’s future as a key govt within the group. It talked about the necessity to develop a retention, transition, and substitute plan for White. Regardless of the considerations, White signed a brand new seven-year cope with the UFC in 2019, indicating his continued position as the corporate’s chief.
The leaked electronic mail gives perception into the inner discussions inside WME concerning potential challenges and dangers related to the UFC, together with authorized points reminiscent of the continued anti-trust lawsuit. The lawsuit, initiated by former fighters, alleges anti-competitive practices by the UFC, aiming to cut back fighter pay and remove competitors.
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