Brief
Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin says he will spend any amount to fight extortion lawsuits
Rubin told the California Post the company will not let “baseless claims” force it to cut legal spending.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Fanatics chief executive Michael Rubin told the California Post on Wednesday that the company will "spend whatever it takes" to defeat lawsuits he describes as extortion attempts, noting that legal fees have approached $100 million.
Rubin said the firm has already spent nearly eight figures on defending multiple civil actions, and he emphasized that the expense will not be reduced. He added that Fanatics will continue to fight claims he considers frivolous.
The lawsuits allege that Fanatics’ dominance in the collectibles and memorabilia market has reduced consumer choice, lowered quality and driven up prices. Cases filed in March and July 2025 claimed the company’s growth limited competition and inflated prices, while a third suit argued that partnerships with professional leagues harmed rival retailers. All three suits, along with at least one other similar case, were recently dismissed by judges who said the plaintiffs failed to show concrete injury.
Rubin also referenced an ongoing antitrust dispute with rival Panini, stating there is no limit to the checks he will write to continue defending the company.
Key facts
- Fanatics has spent nearly $100 million on legal fees. (nypost.com)
- Rubin pledged to spend any amount needed to fight lawsuits. (nypost.com)
- Three recent lawsuits alleging anticompetitive behavior were dismissed. (nypost.com)
- Fanatics remains involved in a civil case with Panini over alleged anticompetitive conduct. (nypost.com)
Sources
- [1] nypost.com — originally reported as “Exclusive | Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin vows to ‘spend whatever it takes’ to fend off ‘extortion’ lawsuits — as legal fees approach eye-watering $100 million”
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