The UFC kicked off 2025 with a bang, delivering its first pay-per-view event of the year, UFC 311, at the newly constructed Intuit Dome in Inglewood. The event showcased champions like Merab Dvalishvili and Islam Makhachev, who successfully defended their titles. Meanwhile, former 205 lbs champion Jiri Prochazka made a triumphant return. Heavyweight contender Jailton Almeida extended his winning streak, and the young star Umar Nurmagomedov saw his remarkable 18-fight win streak come to an end.

Across the board, the dedication displayed by all fighters—whether on the main card, preliminaries, or early prelims—was nothing short of inspiring, as they put their bodies on the line to entertain fans. However, while the UFC and Dana White stayed silent on fighter pay, the California State Athletic Commission released the official UFC 311 fight purses. The figures, shared by French MMA Instagram page ‘La Sueur,’ revealed payouts such as $200,000 for Islam Makhachev, $500,000 for Merab Dvalishvili, and $100,000 for Umar Nurmagomedov.

These disclosed salaries sparked criticism from the French MMA community. Rising lightweight Fares Ziam, set to fight Mike Davis at UFC Fight Night 250 in Saudi Arabia on February 1, dismissed the numbers as “impossible.” His frustration was echoed by French featherweight William Gomis, who gained attention during last year’s UFC Paris event, and undefeated lightweight prospect Oumar Sy, who is gearing up for the UFC London event on March 22, 2025. Both fighters labeled the figures as “Non” and “Negatif,” as negative expressing doubts about the accuracy of the reported payouts.

Since 2020, the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NAC) implemented a major policy change, prohibiting the public disclosure of fight purses. Since then, many other state commissions have adopted similar resolutions. This shift has raised concerns about the transparency of reported salary figures, leading many to question their accuracy. The actual payout details, however, may only be revealed if the UFC or Dana White decides to disclose the official numbers.

Who earned the most from UFC 311 according to the California Commission?

According to the California State Athletic Commission, Merab Dvalishvili appeared to earn more than Islam Makhachev, though the accuracy of the data is still in question. For now, these figures represent what is available. The disclosed amounts show that the 155lbs God-King received $200,000 with no bonuses, while his opponent, Renato Moicano, earned $250,000, also without a win bonus.

In contrast, Merab Dvalishvili reportedly earned $500,000 without bonuses, while his opponent, Umar Nurmagomedov, earned $100,000. Other notable fight purses include the middleweight clash between Reinier de Ridder, who earned $210,000 ($105,000 purse/$105,000 win bonus), and the light heavyweight bout featuring Jailton Almeida, who earned $220,000 ($110,000 purse/$110,000 win bonus). His opponent, Serghei Spivac, earned $100,000. Additionally, Kevin Holland reportedly earned $250,000.

What are your thoughts on the salary list released by the California State Athletic Commission for UFC 311 fight purses? Do you believe the actual figures will be higher than those provided, or do you think the reported numbers might actually be lower than the real payouts? French fighters Oumar Sy, Fares Ziam, and William Gomis have voiced their disagreement with the list. Share your opinions below.