Most Valuable Promotions has responded to a lawsuit filed by
former world champion Heather
Hardy over her 2023 rematch with Amanda
Serrano.
Hardy is seeking $10 million in damages from MVP, alleging in her
complaint that the promotion moved forward with the bout despite
concerns about the risks involved. Hardy alleges that she suffered
permanent neurological damage from the fight, which took place in
August 2023 on the Jake
Paul–Nate Diaz
card.
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Most Valuable Promotions cites Hardy’s medical clearance and
commission oversight in response to the lawsuit
According to Hardy’s complaint, the fight presented an
“extraordinary and foreseeable risk of serious neurological harm.”
She also alleges that the bout contributed to lasting issues,
including traumatic brain injury, memory loss and double
vision.
MVP disputed the allegations in a statement issued in response to
the lawsuit, emphasizing Hardy’s medical clearance and the
commission’s oversight of the contest.
“MVP has great respect for Heather Hardy. We recognize the
difficulty of her circumstances and extend our sincere sympathy and
hope that she receives the care and support she deserves,” MVP
responded (via ESPN). “Heather’s participation on our Aug. 5,
2023, card was arranged through her promoter, Lou DiBella, who
contracted for the fight, and Heather publicly expressed her
gratitude for the opportunity both before and after the fight.”
“MVP followed applicable protocols for the fight, Heather was
medically cleared to compete by the athletic commission overseeing
the event, and the bout proceeded under the commission’s authority
and supervision in accordance with their standard medical and
safety requirements,” the statement added. “MVP remains committed
to fighter safety and supporting the athletes who compete in our
events in full compliance with commission standards.”