A New York federal judge has upheld a jury’s decision to award $1.65 million in statutory damages to Muhammad Ali‘s former personal photographer, following a dispute with a licensing broker. The ruling, issued on July 11, 2025, affirmed the majority of the jury’s findings, while significantly reducing an award related to profits from the use of the photographs.
The judge’s ruling confirmed that the photographer was entitled to the substantial damages due to the unauthorized licensing of images featuring the boxing icon. However, the judge determined that the profits award, originally set at $750,000, should be decreased to less than $5,000. This adjustment reflects the limited financial gains that the licensing broker could demonstrate from the contested photographs.
Details of the Case
This legal battle centers around the rights to images captured by Ali’s personal photographer during the late athlete’s career. The photographer accused the licensing broker of exploiting these images without proper authorization, leading to the initial lawsuit. The jury’s decision to award statutory damages was based on the infringement of copyright law, which protects the creator’s rights over their work.
In the wake of this ruling, the photographer expressed satisfaction with the judge’s decision to uphold the substantial damages. “It’s a victory not just for me, but for all photographers who strive to protect their work,” the photographer stated. The legal team representing the photographer emphasized the importance of this case in safeguarding the rights of artists and creators in the digital age.
Implications for Copyright Law
This case highlights ongoing challenges within copyright law, particularly as it pertains to the unauthorized use of personal works in commercial contexts. Legal experts note that while the damages awarded reflect a strong stance against copyright infringement, the reduction in the profits award may signal a more nuanced approach by the courts in evaluating financial gains from such infringements.
The decision also raises questions about the future of licensing agreements and the responsibilities of brokers in ensuring that they have the proper rights to use specific images. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the implications for photographers and other creators remain significant.
The ruling serves as a reminder of the importance of copyright enforcement and the need for clarity in licensing practices, especially in cases involving high-profile subjects like Muhammad Ali.
As this case continues to resonate within the photography and legal communities, it underscores the ongoing discourse around creator rights and the protection of artistic works in an increasingly commercialized environment.
