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Shawne Merriman's Lights Out Fighting Faces Legal Turmoil

2/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

Lights Out Xtreme Fighting, founded by Shawne Merriman, faced turmoil after Applied Real Intelligence acquired majority stake in January 2026.
Merriman said he was surprised to be removed from board and that it was unnecessary.
A lawsuit followed over a $2.1 million Lights Out loan default, with ARI arguing it gained control because of Merriman's default.
Merriman's attorney contended ARI overstepped its authority, with a court decision expected soon.

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Story summary

Lights Out Xtreme Fighting, founded by Shawne Merriman, faced turmoil after Applied Real Intelligence acquired majority stake in January 2026.
Merriman said he was surprised to be removed from board and that it was unnecessary.
A lawsuit followed over a $2.1 million Lights Out loan default, with ARI arguing it gained control because of Merriman's default.
Merriman's attorney contended ARI overstepped its authority, with a court decision expected soon.