Have you ever wondered how much does a UFC fighter get paid? Well, we’ve got you covered as we answer all of your questions about what your favorite fighters put in the bank.
How much do UFC fighters make?
UFC fighters get paid based on a variety of factors. They each sign contracts setting a particular dollar figure per fight. Popularity and prior success determine the exact amount per fight.
Most bout agreements also include a bonus for winning. Typically, the win bonus doubles their paycheck. In some cases, a flat fee is agreed upon and no additional money is given simply for winning.
After every event, several fighters are awarded $50,000 bonuses for outstanding performances. Two individuals are selected for the Performance of the Night bonus. Those are usually given to the most impressive finishes. Fight of the Night is given to both athletes in the most entertaining bout on the card.
Do UFC fighters get a base salary?
No, UFC fighters do not get paid a base salary. They are independent contractors and are only paid per appearance in the Octagon. The minimum amount a fighter will earn per fight in the UFC is $12,000.
Who is richest UFC fighter?
- 1. Conor McGregor
- 2. Khabib Nurmagomedov
- 3. Georges St. Pierre
- 4. Brock Lesnar
- 5. Tito Ortiz
Who is the richest female MMA fighter?
Along with wondering how much does a UFC fighter get paid, fans are curious about the pay of female athletes. Retired former bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey is the richest female MMA fighter the sport has seen. Her reported net worth is $14 million.
How to become a UFC fighter In 2024
Before becoming a UFC fighter, it is imperative that you learn martial arts. Some have taken one of the many disciplines before branching into MMA. Wrestling, boxing, Muay Thai, jiu-jitsu, karate, etc. have been the foundation for many good careers in the sport.
Most will have to work their way up on the amateur circuit before turning professional. As a professional fighter, you will have to perform well and accrue a winning record. This may attract the attention of UFC matchmakers looking to fill roster spots.
Alternatively, auditioning for a spot on the long-running reality TV show “The Ultimate Fighter” or competing on the Contender Series, a feeder league run by UFC CEO Dana White, can speed up the process.
Can you make a living as a UFC fighter?
Yes, you can make a living as a UFC fighter. Ideally, the athletes on the roster train full-time to maximize their potential. However, simply fighting in the UFC is no guarantee of financial success.
Most fighters aim to compete three or four times a year. If they are paid the minimum amount (and assuming they haven’t sidelined injury, win each time, and therefore receive a win bonus,) they can earn $96,000 for the year. Performance bonuses can add up as well.
However, that $96,000 is a best-case scenario that doesn’t account for training fees, nutrition, taxes, management, and other expenses. Some fighters have been compelled to maintain other jobs on top of their contractual obligations to the promotion.
Sponsorships, coaching, acting, and investments are some of the common outside revenue sources.
How much do UFC refs make?
According to multiple reports, UFC refs can make anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500 per fight they oversee. That range jumps up to $5,000 to $15,000 for pay-per-view bouts. Herb Dean, one of the most active refs in the sport, is believed to make $500,000 a year.
Of course, being the third person in the Octagon is an opportunity afforded to experienced referees with good reputations. Newcomers can expect to pay their dues in lower-level promotions for $350 to $600 per fight.
How much do UFC ring girls make?
UFC ring girls reportedly pull in $1,000 to $5,000 per event. They can use their popularity as UFC personalities to attract other endeavors to supplement their income. Some of those include public appearances, modeling, and social media marketing.
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