Stars like Jon Jones can’t ‘hold UFC hostage’ with new broadcast deal, says co-founder

Campbell McLaren was instrumental in the UFC’s early development, working with Rorion Gracie, Art Davie, and Bob Meyrowitz. He influenced everything from the organisation’s concept to Joe Rogan’s involvement in post-fight interviews.

Now serving as CEO of Combate Global, he recently shared his thoughts on how the UFC’s new broadcast arrangement might affect some of its top fighters.

He suggested that moving away from pay-per-view could shift leverage back towards the organisation, rather than individual fighters.

McLaren pointed to Jon Jones as an example. In previous contract negotiations, Jones declined matchups with Francis Ngannou and Tom Aspinall over pay disputes.

“Many of you may disagree but the UFC moving away from PPV’s frees them from being held hostage from fighters like Jon Jones. Hostage,” McLaren said.

“I know it seems like promotions have leverage but often the fighter has all the power. Your POV depends on what side of the fence you are on.”

Who will Dana White pick for the White House card now that it is no longer tied to PPV

One of the UFC’s most anticipated events is set to take place next year, and it looks likely that one of the sport’s biggest names will be involved.

With both Conor McGregor and Jon Jones being logical choices to headline such a high-profile event, there has been plenty of speculation about which direction the UFC might go. It also remains unclear whether the new broadcast deal will have any impact on those decisions.

Regarding that, Dana White recently stated on The Jim Rome Show that he would trust ‘The Notorious’ over Jones for a major slot without question.

“I trust Conor. Conor McGregor has never, ever – unless he is seriously injured – this guy has always delivered. Jon, I’m a little more skeptical about.”

As White has pointed out when asked about potential headliners for this event, it is still too early for any concrete discussions.