MMA Junkie reports that Tito Ortiz was asked, but declined to participate in the current UFC lawsuit filed by three fighters alleging violations of antitrust law.
Ortiz’s attorney, George Prajin, informed Junkie that the current Bellator fighter would not participate in the lawsuit which seeks class action status. According to the Junkie article, Prajin and Ortiz met with Rob Maysey, one of the attorneys leading the charge for this lawsuit a year and a half ago. Although intrigued by the proposed litigation at the time, Ortiz declined to be involved. Ortiz’s attorney indicated that he was contacted recently about the lawsuit but maintained to stay out. However, Ortiz indicated that he may change his mind if the class is certified by the court.
Payout Perspective:
The Ortiz information is interesting and may be one of the hurdles the plaintiffs will have in getting fighters to join the lawsuit. It appears that Ortiz would most likely not want to actively participate for several reasons. He indicated in the article that he doesn’t want his name used just for publicity. Also, there is a storied past with Ortiz and White and perhaps he is looking down the road at does not want to get caught up in messy litigation. Regardless of being a named plaintiff, if this lawsuit enters the discovery stage we will see if one of the sides attempts to depose Ortiz about his past with Zuffa.
“However, Ortiz indicated that he may change his mind if the class is certified by the court.” This is a huge factor for many fighters !!
Sal: It is but plaintiffs will need a big name for other fighters to join the cause. It’s nice if Ortiz comes in after, but someone will need to step up.
Sal you are a moron.
Let me guess… Tito is being courted by that Pink Pig faced Dana?