Denver CO, January 25, 2006: Officials with the Worldwide Fighting Championship are releasing information concerning the legal circumstances surrounding the dismissal of Shannon Ritch as match-maker.

The WFC has obtained copies of several financial transfers from WFC sponsors into the personal bank accounts of Shannon Ritch, of which, no funds have been turned over to WFC management.

This information came to light shortly after the conclusion of a WFC event that was held January 21, 2006. This information lead directly to the dismissal and legal action imposed on Mr. Ritch. The actions in question surround the sponsorship funds of several businesses and missing merchandise that was intended as gifts for fighters, competiting on the January 21, card.

Although no formal charges have been made, the Fort Collins (Colo.), Police Department as well as the Federal Bureau of Investigation, are investigating the incident. Officials from these law enforcement agencies were unavailable for comment due to the on-going nature of the investigation.

The WFC takes this action very seriously and hopes for a speedy resolution to this matter. The WFC reiterates that these types of business dealings will not be tolerated and will prosecute to the full extent of the law.

The WFC feels that dishonest practices such as this are detrimental to the sport and fans. At a time when the MMA industry still wears a black-eye when it comes to mainstream acceptance, actions like these against the WFC and its fans will only hurt the overall image of the sport.

The WFC expects swift resolution to this matter. No replacement for Mr. Ritch has been named, and the number one priority for the WFC is to return to business as usual and allow law enforcement personnel to do their job to see that circumstances such as this will never occur again.

Source: MaxFighting.com