GSP and Star Studded Line Up Announce The Mixed Martial Arts Athletes Association

When GSP said he had a big announcement earlier this week, he wasn’t lying. The former welterweight champion along with Donald Cerrone, Tim Kennedy, T.J. Dillashaw, and promoter Bjorn Rebney held a conference call today to announce the official launch of the Mixed Martial Arts Athletes Association.

According to the active and retired fighters,

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GSP: “Even tho I know a lot of fighters are afraid, it’s time to step up and do the right thing. It’s time to join in.”

When GSP said he had a big announcement earlier this week, he wasn’t lying. The former welterweight champion along with Donald Cerrone, Tim Kennedy, T.J. Dillashaw, Cain Velasquez and former chairman and chief executive of bellator, Bjorn Rebney, held a conference call today to announce the official launch of the Mixed Martial Arts Athletes Association.

According to the all fighter board, this association is about fighters past and present, and plans to address issues in regards to wage gaps, pension, and healthcare. The association repeatedly urged current fighters to “join in”, as though the association may not be perfect, it’s the best chance they have right now.

The MMA Board will consist of 5 fighters

–GSP

–Cain Velasquez

–Donald Cerrone

–Tim Kennedy

–T.J. Dillashaw

–Bjorn Rebney (as advisor)

 

The resounding message of the association seems to be a safe place for fighters, that is run by fighters. They’re calling for basic rights that is afforded any other athlete in any other sport. In short they’re trying to legitimize MMA not only as a promotion but also as a sport – on both sides. While we don’t have the audio of the press conference, we do have a play by play of the major talking points via Twitter.

 

 

 

While this all sounds perfectly reasonable, the real question is how many current fighters will actually join. We all know UFC rules with an iron fist, so it’s easy for the “healthy and wealthy” GSP to tell other fighters “don’t be afraid” – this is their livelihood on the line. Another concern is the “all fighter” board. While it sounds great in theory, does the beer swigging Mr. “I didn’t write a speech. Fuck, I wish I had.” have the capacity to head a new Association at such a volatile stage. Being one of the most active fighters in the UFC, does he even have the time?

One things for sure, the UFC will come down harshly and threats will be made. If this Association doesn’t work you can be sure Dana White will extra diligent in stomping out any revolution in the future.

Let us know what you think about the new fighter association and if you think it stands a chance.

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