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Draft:Global Fighters Union

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Global Fighters' Union (GFU) is an emerging organization advocating for the rights, safety, and well-being of combat sports participants worldwide. Established in October 2022, the GFU is registered as a Community Interest Company (CIC) in the UK and is working to gain full recognition as a trade union. It aims to address the lack of regulation and representation in the combat sports industry.[1]

History

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The GFU was founded by a coalition of former athletes, managers, and trade unionists, including former GMB Union Leader Paul Maloney[2], former boxing champion Amir Khan and the Smith brothers, Paul and Stephen. The organization was created to combat the vulnerabilities faced by fighters, such as lack of access to insurance, pensions, and workplace protections.[1]

The GFU was soft launched in January 2024,[3][4] receiving notable media attention. Throughout the year, it worked to secure official recognition as a trade union, gaining significant international coverage in December 2024[5][6]with the announcement of its core goals and initiatives. The organization’s full official launch is scheduled for January 2025.[7]

Mission and Goals

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The GFU aims to advocate for fair pay, contracts, and working conditions while providing access to essential benefits like insurance, pensions, and legal support. It seeks to improve health and safety standards, including mental and physical well-being, and offers educational resources to enhance career longevity and post-retirement planning. Additionally, the GFU is committed to building a global, inclusive community that unites fighters, coaches, and fans.[8][9][10][11]

Future Plans

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The GFU plans to officially launch as a trade union in January 2025, expand its membership globally, and collaborate with stakeholders to enhance fighter protections and support.[7][8]

References

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  1. ^ a b "Amir Khan leads new fighters union calling for better standards in boxing". The Independent. 2024-12-10. Retrieved 2024-12-13.
  2. ^ "Paul Moloney". GOV.UK. Retrieved 2024-12-13.
  3. ^ "Global Fighters' Union Launches, Revolutionizing Combat Sports". KO On SI. 2024-01-16. Retrieved 2024-12-13.
  4. ^ Orme-Claye, Ted (2024-01-16). "Global Fighters Union set up for combat sports athletes". Retrieved 2024-12-13.
  5. ^ Miller2024-12-10T11:09:00+00:00, Max. "Global Fighters' Union calls on broadcaster support". Broadcast. Retrieved 2024-12-13.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  6. ^ "Global Fighters' Union (GFU) Set To Launch In January 2025". KO On SI. 2024-12-10. Retrieved 2024-12-13.
  7. ^ a b "Amir Khan leads new fighters union calling for better standards in boxing". Yahoo News. 2024-12-10. Retrieved 2024-12-13.
  8. ^ a b Dalleres, Frank (2024-12-10). "Amir Khan's Global Fighters' Union seeks slice of TV money pie". City AM. Retrieved 2024-12-13.
  9. ^ "Amir Khan leads new fighters union calling for better standards in boxing". inkl. 2024-12-10. Retrieved 2024-12-13.
  10. ^ James (2024-12-10). "Amir Khan Launches Global Fighters' Union To Improve Safety Standards, Secure Better Pay For Fighters And Increase Retirement Benefits As He Urges Broadcaster To Support 'the New PFA Of Combat Sports'". NY Breaking News. Retrieved 2024-12-13.
  11. ^ "Amir Khan leads new fighters union calling for better standards in boxing". Yahoo Sports. 2024-12-10. Retrieved 2024-12-13.
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