Sean Strickland Rips Dana White Over ‘Predatory’ UFC Pay Amid 8-Figure Conor Benn Buzz
UFC fighter Sean Strickland has recently made headlines for speaking out against the promotion’s pay structure. In an interview with Complex’s Matt Welty, the former middleweight champ expressed his frustration with the UFC’s pay system, which he believes is “predatory” and unfair to the fighters.
Strickland’s grievances are not new, as many other UFC fighters have also criticized the promotion’s pay structure in the past. However, his comments come at a time when the UFC is entering a new era with its partnership with Paramount+. While many fans and fighters are excited about the potential growth and exposure this partnership could bring, Strickland sees it as just another way for the UFC to make money while the fighters continue to struggle.
In the interview, Strickland shared some shocking numbers, revealing that he only received $37,000 for his last fight, which he won by knockout. This amount is significantly lower than what other professional athletes in other sports make, and even lower than what some of his fellow UFC fighters have earned for their fights. Strickland also pointed out that the UFC’s top stars, such as Conor McGregor, are making millions while the rest of the fighters are barely making enough to cover their training expenses.
This huge disparity in pay has been a long-standing issue in the UFC, and Strickland is not the first fighter to speak out against it. However, his comments have gained more attention due to the recent buzz surrounding Conor Benn, who is reportedly set to earn an eight-figure payday for his upcoming fight. Strickland sees this as a clear indication that the UFC’s pay structure is not based on merit or performance, but rather on star power and marketability.
The UFC has always been known for its “take it or leave it” approach when it comes to fighter pay. While some fighters have been able to negotiate better contracts, the majority of them are at the mercy of the promotion. Strickland believes that this is a predatory tactic used by the UFC to keep the fighters in line and prevent them from speaking out against the promotion.
In the past, UFC president Dana White has defended the promotion’s pay structure, stating that the fighters are paid what they are worth. However, Strickland’s comments shed light on the fact that this may not be entirely true. With the UFC’s revenue reaching record highs, it’s hard to believe that the fighters are being paid what they truly deserve.
Strickland’s bold statements have sparked a debate within the MMA community, with many fighters and fans showing their support for him. They believe that it’s time for the UFC to address the issue of fighter pay and provide a more fair and equitable system for all its fighters.
In conclusion, Sean Strickland’s comments have once again brought attention to the issue of fighter pay in the UFC. While the promotion continues to grow and make record profits, it’s important to remember that it’s the fighters who put their bodies on the line every time they step into the octagon. It’s time for the UFC to reevaluate its pay structure and provide its fighters with the compensation they deserve. As fans, we should support the fighters in their fight for fair pay and encourage the UFC to do the right thing.
