Over the years, there has been much conversation regarding the bonus structure within the UFC. Those discussions heightened when Dana White announced a new benefit for fighters, but the good news came at a cost.
The mainstream inception of the UFC began just 33 years ago, making it an extremely young combat sport. Unlike major boxing promotions, mixed martial arts lacks unionization, and the Ultimate Fighting Championship acts as a monopoly, leaving big talent less room for negotiation.
The company has come under criticism in the past decade for its low revenue share for fighters, but fans have praised the UFC and Dana White for their new bonus model. Performance of the night and fight of the night incentives have been raised from $50,000 to $100,000, with a new ‘finish bonus’ being implemented, which rewards competitors with an extra $25,000 if they secure a stoppage victory.
As great an addition as the new setup is, it has brought an end to a long-standing, somewhat hidden UFC tradition. Revealed by Dana White, before their deal with Paramount, the organization would send additional money to each fighter on the card.
“So, what has been happening forever in this company since, you know, we started this company is: every night I would tell you guys, ‘Oh, these guys won these bonuses.’ But everybody on the card would get a check for different dollar amounts depending on how they fought, ranging anywhere from $5,000 to $25,000, every event.” White said.
“So, those are going away, and now finishes will get a $25,000 bonus.”
The new rule came into play for UFC 324 on Saturday. Those profiting from the new bonus were Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett, who earned fight of the night honors and took an additional $100,000 home with them. Josh Hokit and debutant Ty Miller were each handed the performance of the night accolade, each earning $100,000. Aside from Alex Perez, who missed weight and was ineligible, there were two fighters who got $25,000 finish bonuses.
