Sports & Athletes

Top Earning UFC Fighters by Base Pay and Bonuses

A comprehensive ranking of the Ultimate Fighting Championship's most lucrative athletes, highlighting stars who command the highest purse amounts through guaranteed base pay, win bonuses, and performance-related incentives. This list focuses on fighters with significant financial influence and consistent high-level performance within the organization.

ID: 28603
Items: 20
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Conor McGregor

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Widely regarded as one of the highest-paid athletes in combat sports history due to massive pay-per-view points deals. Even when inactive, his brand power commands unprecedented financial terms, including backend profits from fight card revenue.

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Jon Jones

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As the undisputed heavyweight champion and former light heavyweight titlist, Jones commands top-tier compensation packages. His recent title defenses and return to the octagon are backed by substantial guaranteed purses and win bonuses.

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Israel Adesanya

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The former middleweight champion commands high purses due to his drawing power as a main event star. His contract includes significant base pay and performance bonuses, reflecting his status as one of the division's biggest attractions.

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Amanda Nunes

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Previously the undisputed champion in two weight classes, Nunes secured legendary financial deals that set benchmarks for female athletes. Although retired, her final contracts included massive win bonuses and backend participation deals.

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Khabib Nurmagomedov

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Before his retirement, Khabib negotiated some of the highest purse structures in UFC history, excluding PPV shares. His undefeated record and dominant grappling style made him a premium draw for major events.

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Dustin Poirier

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A top-tier lightweight contender with a history of high-stakes bouts against elite competition. His contracts reflect his longevity and ability to put on exciting fights, securing substantial base pay and performance bonuses.

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Francis Ngannou

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The former heavyweight champion secured a landmark nine-figure contract upon leaving the UFC, setting a new standard for fighter compensation. His physical dominance and knockout power commanded record-breaking guarantees during his tenure.

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Islam Makhachev

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As the current lightweight champion, Makhachev commands a growing purse thanks to his dominant reign and exciting fighting style. His contracts include significant base pay and win bonuses for successful title defenses.

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Alexander Volkanovski

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The former featherweight champion earned substantial income through long-term main event contracts and performance bonuses. His skill set and popularity ensured high guarantees even during title defenses and championship transitions.

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Jon Jones (Lightweight Division Entry)

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Max Holloway

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A popular strawweight and featherweight veteran known for his action-packed fights and knockout power. His consistent performance at the top level secures lucrative contracts with strong base pay and fight night bonuses.

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Valentina Shevchenko

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One of the most decorated female fighters in history, Shevchenko commanded top-dollar contracts during her reign as champion. Her technical prowess and fan appeal resulted in high guarantees and bonus opportunities.

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Kamaru Usman

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The former welterweight champion secured significant financial rewards through multiple title reigns and main event appearances. His dominant wrestling and striking style made him a cornerstone of the division for years.

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Sean O'Malley

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The current bantamweight champion earns a high purse due to his charismatic persona and drawing power. His contract structure includes substantial base pay and win bonuses, reflecting his status as a top draw for the UFC.

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Belal Muhammad

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As the reigning welterweight champion, Muhammad commands a significant base pay and win bonuses. His undefeated record and exciting fighting style have elevated his financial standing within the organization.

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Alex Pereira

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The current light heavyweight and former middleweight champion earns top-tier compensation due to his knockout power and crossover appeal. His rapid rise to the top has been accompanied by lucrative contract negotiations and bonuses.

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Dricus Du Plessis

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The reigning middleweight champion secures high payouts through winning streaks and main event performances. His aggressive style and recent title victories have significantly boosted his base pay and bonus eligibility.

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Ilia Topuria

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The current featherweight champion commands a growing purse due to his undefeated record and promotional appeal. His contracts feature strong base guarantees and win bonuses, reflecting his status as a rising star.

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Sean Strickland

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The former middleweight champion earned a significant purse upon defeating the previous titleholder. His controversial persona and fighting style have kept him in the spotlight, ensuring continued high earnings for main card appearances.

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Jiri Prochazka

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A charismatic light heavyweight star known for his chaotic fighting style, Prochazka commands high purses due to his drawing power. His contracts include substantial base pay and performance bonuses for main event appearances.