Ex-NFL Star Loses MMA Company
Former NFL star Shawne Merriman has lost control of his MMA company, Lights Out Xtreme Fighting, amid ongoing litigation with former business partners. The dispute centers on management and financial control, casting uncertainty on the promotion's future and Merriman's ongoing role in MMA.
- The core of the dispute is a $2.1 million loan Lights Out Xtreme Fighting secured in May 2024 from investment firm Applied Real Intelligence (A.R.I.). Merriman's company allegedly missed three interest payments between October and December 2025, totaling approximately $50,000. - Following the alleged default, A.R.I. appointed its own CEO, Dr. Zack Ellison, as the new Chairman, President, and CEO of Lights Out, a move Merriman described as a "strong arm" tactic. Merriman has filed a lawsuit seeking a Temporary Restraining Order to prevent what he calls a "wrongful takeover." - Shawne Merriman founded Lights Out Xtreme Fighting in 2019 with the goal of creating a feeder league for larger promotions like the UFC and to provide a platform for athletes transitioning from other sports. - The promotion has focused on technological innovation, including a partnership with PTF Lab to implement AI-powered virtual advertising during live broadcasts. It also partnered with ShotTracker to incorporate chips in fighters' gloves to measure speed, power, and g-force. - Prior to the legal battle, the company reported significant growth, with a 70% increase in viewership for its tenth event in August 2023 compared to its ninth. It also secured a multi-year media rights deal with ESPN for distribution in South America and the Caribbean. - In May 2023, Merriman partnered with SeventySix Capital Sports Advisory to focus on strategic growth and expand the league's reach and fan engagement. - Despite the ongoing legal dispute over control of the company, upcoming events for Lights Out Xtreme Fighting continue to be scheduled and promoted. The promotion has held over 29 events and more than 180 fights since its inception.
