Fighters often step into the UFC Octagon with one common aspiration: to make a name and secure financial stability. However, the recent revelation of previously undisclosed UFC payouts has ignited a firestorm of debate within the combat sports community. This explosive exposé emerged during the ongoing class action lawsuit against the Dana White-led UFC.

The records feature total payouts of UFC stars like Conor McGregor, Jon Jones, and Ronda Rousey. Undoubtedly, McGregor is UFC’s biggest name, and hence, deserves handsome remuneration for his fights. For a long time, fans and pundits believed that the UFC paid the Irishman well. But recent revelations reveal otherwise. This eye-opening dossier, referred to as ‘Internal Zuffa Bout Compensation,’ encompasses the conventional show-and-win bonuses and concealed payments like PPV bonuses, side letters, and discretionary bonuses.

Conor McGregor’s UFC payouts between 2011 and 2016

The Irish phenom, touted as the UFC’s biggest draw, has been a pivotal figure in the promotion’s success. His UFC bouts have been monumental PPV hits, generating an astounding amount at the gate.

Let’s delve into the numbers in the surfaced documents. When Conor McGregor faced Eddie Alvarez at UFC 205, the PPV event raked in a staggering $66 million. However, McGregor’s purse was only $6,812,374, including a discretionary bonus of $2.11 million. According to reports, this is the highest payout for the Irishman between 2011 and 2016.

‘The Notorious’ received $4,476,662 – $4,536,932 for his memorable 13-second KO against Jose Aldo. Further, he earned $5,576,315 and $5,615,490 for his two fights against Nate Diaz. His lowest payout of the time was against Chad Mendes, where he received $3,285,000. While these numbers might seem substantial, especially in comparison to typical worker’s salaries, the question remains—did McGregor receive his fair share?

Why Conor McGregor should have earned more!

McGregor’s star power is undeniable. He’s not only one of the most renowned combat sports athletes in history but also a consistent PPV sensation. Most of the highest-selling UFC PPVs have featured the charismatic Irishman, demonstrating his unparalleled ability to attract audiences.

The stark difference between fighter and promotion earnings becomes evident when you examine other combat sports. In boxing, for instance, fighters typically receive a more significant chunk of the revenue generated from their bouts. Big boxing names can earn up to 40% of the money generated from the PPVs they fight in.

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McGregor’s UFC 205 PPV earned around $66 million. Looking at the total revenue, the Irishman just earned 10% of it, which is significantly less than what is common in other combat sports.

What Conor McGregor can earn outside the UFC

A few years ago, the Irishman repotedly earned over $100 million in a boxing fight against Floyd Mayweather. Moreover, he has shown keen interest in returning to the boxing ring soon. If this is the case, ‘The Notorious’ can earn over $50 million because of his star power, depending on his opponent. Also, if he fights a big name like Canelo Alvarez, the amount can go higher.

Another option that the former champion has is PFL. PFL is growing to become UFC’s top rival, and has signed the former UFC heavyweight champ Francis Ngannou. According to the deal, Ngannou will receive a guaranteed ‘high 7 figure purse’ for his PFL appearances. Since the Irishman is substantially more popular than ‘The Predator’, he can easily earn 8 figures in the PFL.

Payouts of other UFC stars

While Conor McGregor’s payouts have raised eyebrows, let’s not overlook other notable fighters in the UFC. Ronda Rousey, the pioneering women’s MMA icon, earned approximately $13 million during seven UFC bouts. These fights included wins over celebrated opponents like Miesha Tate and Cat Zingano.

Brock Lesnar, in just two fights between 2011 and 2016, earned a total of $11 million. ‘The Beast Incarnate’ received a record-breaking sum of $8 million for his fight against Mark Hunt. Jon Jones, on the other hand, received approximately $15 million for seven fights between 2011 and 2016. The current UFC heavyweight champ had his share of pay-related problems with the UFC. Shockingly, former WWE star CM Punk received $1 million for his UFC loss against Mickey Gall.

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Conor McGregor’s star power and the revenue he’s generated for the UFC make a compelling case for a fairer distribution of earnings. What do you think about it? Let us know in the comments below.