UFC Fighters, It's Time to Unite for Fairer Pay!
Max Holloway, a beloved figure in the UFC, is sending out a powerful call to arms for his fellow fighters: stand together to demand better compensation. While recent changes have brought some good news, like increased fight bonuses from $50,000 to $100,000 thanks to the new Paramount deal, a stark contrast has emerged. The recent $10 million one-fight deal for Conor Benn by Zuffa Boxing has left many UFC stars, including Sean O'Malley and Michael Page, questioning the disparity.
Holloway vividly recalls a pivotal moment that highlights this issue: the failed negotiations between Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou for the UFC heavyweight title back in 2021. Jon Jones famously stated that $8-10 million was insufficient for the fight. But here's where it gets controversial... Derrick Lewis, another top contender, stepped in and offered to fight Ngannou for a mere $8 million. Holloway believes this kind of action, while perhaps well-intentioned, actually undermines the collective bargaining power of the fighters.
"We cannot be doing that, brother," Holloway emphasized in a recent interview on Demetrious Johnson's YouTube Channel. He explained that instead of undercutting each other, fighters should have supported Jones in his pursuit of a higher payday. "You needed to be almost stand in Jon's corner, and be like, 'Yeah Jon, you deserve $10 million, go get that 10.' Because guess what, if he's fighting for ten, your base pay probably comes up too." And this is the part most people miss: when one fighter secures a significantly higher purse, it can set a new precedent that benefits everyone in the long run.
Holloway's message to the rising stars is clear: "just know your worth." Understanding your value and presenting a united front is crucial for achieving equitable pay in the sport.
Max Holloway is set to defend his BMF title in a highly anticipated rematch against Charles Oliveira this Saturday at UFC 326. The event will be broadcast on Paramount+ and CBS from the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
What do you think? Should UFC fighters band together to negotiate for higher pay, or is individual negotiation the best strategy? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
