Bellator sues UFC, alleges “tortious interference of contract”
MMAjunkie.com has learned that Bellator Sport Worldwide, LLC today filed suit against Zuffa in a New Jersey court and alleges…
MMAjunkie.com has learned that Bellator Sport Worldwide, LLC today filed suit against Zuffa in a New Jersey court and alleges that “The Ultimate Fighter 12” cast member Jonathan Brookins joined the Spike TV reality series while still under an exclusive contract for Bellator.
Brookins and his manager Mickey Dubberley were also named as defendants in the suit.
A WEC veteran, Brookins is perhaps best known for a November 2008 loss to Jose Aldo, the current WEC featherweight champion. According to the suit, Brookins signed an “exclusive promotional contract” with Bellator in March 2009.
Brookins debuted with Bellator in April 2009 with a submission win over Stephen Ledbetter in a non-tournament affair. Brookins followed up those fights with a pair of wins under the G-Force Fights banner. Bellator’s suit contends they signed off on each of the two fights outside of their promotion.
However, Bellator contends when it came to an appearance on “The Ultimate Fighter,” Brookins did not seek permission. In fact, the complaint states that Brookins manager actually lied to Bellator about his client’s status.