$15 Million Deal Shakes UFC Pay Scale

Zuffa Boxing’s recent signing of British fighter Conor Benn has sparked a conversation about how much fighters earn across combat sports. The new contract, reportedly worth $15 million for a single bout, is far above the typical UFC payout. Even Sean O’Malley, once one of the promotion’s most popular stars, expressed disbelief at the figure. He noted that while boxers often control a larger share of event revenue, UFC fighters receive only about 20 percent of the promotion’s earnings. O’Malley said he “can’t imagine it being true” and highlighted the disparity, comparing his own earnings to Benn’s potential payday.He also mentioned that business motives and personal rivalries—such as tensions between UFC owner Dana White and boxing promoters—might influence the decision. While O’Malley sees the move as a business strategy rather than a personal slight, he questions why a fighter who has not held a major title could command such a high salary. The deal illustrates the growing gap between boxing and MMA compensation, suggesting that fighters in both sports may need to rethink their contracts as the industry evolves.