Former PFL Light Heavyweight champion Emiliano Sordi is not happy with Karate Combat.
Argentina’s Sordi (26-14-1) is a well-traveled MMA veteran who’s competed everywhere from Contenders Series to Bellator
to winning $1 million in PFL back in 2019. Back in October, Sordi made his Karate Combat debut, defeating UFC veteran Zac Pauga in the very first round via knockout. Unfortunately, “He-Man” alleges the promotion still hasn’t paid him for his good work, and he also claims Karate Combat executives lied to him before halting all communication.
“It has been almost two months since I fought for Karate Combat, and I still haven’t been paid,” Sordi wrote on X. “After multiple false promises of payment, the CEO of the company stopped responding altogether. I did my part. I trained, I showed up, and I fought. I’m still waiting for them to honor what they owe. This isn’t just about me. Fighters deserve respect, professionalism, and to be paid on time. Honoring contracts is not optional.”
Recently, there have been rumors that Karate Combat is struggling to keep the ship afloat. The promotion has quickly built a following online, but they also pay far more than the average regional striking show. Just about two weeks ago, the highly-anticipated Karate Combat 58 event was delayed for several hours after the pit was not built in time, lending credence to the idea that all might not be well.
Since his October 31 victory over Pauga, Sordi has already fought again, defeating another UFC veteran in Tom Breese for the Fight Nation Championship promotion in Croatia.
Hopefully, that check actually clears!
