Today it was inevitably reported that
Legend FC's recently crowned Bantamweight Champion Jumabieke Tuerxun would not be participating on the card announced by
RUFF for March 24th. His coach, Zhao XueJun of the Xian Physical Education University,
was reported as saying Bieke would be exclusive to Legend FC during the entire period that he defends his championship title. This means that his anticipated rematch with Hong Kong-based rocketing MMA fighter
Irshaad Sayed - who was on the receiving end of a decision loss against him a little over six months ago - will likely not take place at this time. Sources indicate that the Legend FC contract for February 11th was
signed before the match at RUFF 3 for March 24th was made, so the title
defence exclusivity clause should have been understood by all parties
involved.
Aside from this clause, it is nothing out of the ordinary for Chinese athletes to fight in both promotions. Legend FC hasn't claimed exclusivity of its fighters, although it has previously publicly stated that it does keep its title holders exclusive, Adrian Pang being the exception: he had a contract with CFC predating Legend FC's, and both organizations honored it. RUFF, in its turn, has also written at least one exclusive multi-fight contract, a source close to the matter has confirmed.
Beyond the contractural obligations and legal mumbo jumbo, lies the sport. Beike versus Sayed is a match people have wanted to see, although 'see' is subjective as RUFF neither broadcasts nor streams outside of the China market - fans would be left searching for Youku videos weeks after the event. Mark up the same sentiments for Legend FC, who won't sign Sayed because it focuses on only Austral-Asian athletes.
