Bookmaker Sets Odds on Randy Couture's Return to MMA

It was a bit corny, but funny.

Actually, not as long as you think. Both sides have now submitted the case to arbitration, where an independent arbitrator approved by both sides will decide on the contract. That should come down within 3-4 weeks. If the arbitrator rules for Randy, and I have my doubts he or she will, then there is likely an appeals clause, but the entire system of arbitration moves much faster than the court system.

They can sue him for breach for what he’s done so far but it won’t keep him away from fighting. They are going to have to make a call on signing Fedor or making a deal to make Randy happen in the next week or two. If they win in arbitration then it’s going to be appealed as well, but if a loss for Randy is upheld then he will get to choose whether to retire or fight in the UFC again.

The “keep in court forever” tactic is kind of a common myth along with frivolous lawsuits. It’s true when it comes to complex transactions and breach situations, but in a straight up contracts case, they cannot just stall it out forever. Judges don’t like it and will start ruling against motions if they think the intention is just to draw things out.

UFC lawyers are surely not as confident as you. It’s very complex, the arbitrators could really go either way. Many are pro labor and favor the free flow of labor, and may rule for Couture. This is not even close to a slam dunk.