The UFC 308 event on September 26th was packed with thrilling fights and jaw-dropping moments. At the heart of the evening was the highly anticipated featherweight title clash between Ilia Topuria and Max Holloway. The bout ended in spectacular fashion when Topuria defended his title by knocking out Holloway in the third round.
Following the event, details of the fighters’ earnings were leaked, giving fans an inside look at how much the biggest names in the UFC made that night.
Ilia Topuria and Max Holloway – The Financial Breakdown
Ilia Topuria topped the payout chart at UFC 308, earning a substantial $3,992,000 for his victory over Holloway. This impressive sum includes his base salary, bonuses, and a performance bonus, with his knockout of Holloway being a highlight of the evening. However, despite this impressive payout, Topuria felt the $50,000 performance bonus he received was not enough. After the fight, Topuria made his thoughts clear: “I knocked out Max Holloway, and Dana only gave me $50,000? I think I deserve more than that, especially after finishing a former champion like him.” His comments reflect his belief that his victory deserved an additional financial reward.
In comparison, Max Holloway, despite losing the fight, earned a significant $2,432,000. As a former champion, Holloway’s status in the UFC ensures he remains among the highest-paid fighters, even in defeat.
Other Notable Earnings at UFC 308
The night was filled with explosive performances, with several fighters raking in impressive payouts.
Khamzat Chimaev, who made a victorious return after a long hiatus, submitted former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker early in the first round. His payout amounted to $1,056,000, including a $50,000 performance bonus.
Sharabutdin Magomedov, a rising star, earned $234,500 after a spectacular knockout of Armen Petrosyan. His performance earned him one of the two Performance of the Night bonuses.
The event also saw the Fight of the Night awarded to Mateusz Rebecki and Myktybek Orolbai, with each fighter receiving a $50,000 bonus. Rebecki earned $234,500 for his thrilling performance, while Orolbai took home $114,000.
Who Earned the Least?
Not all fighters left UFC 308 with massive paychecks. Raffael Cerqueira was the lowest-paid athlete on the card, receiving only $19,000 after being knocked out in the first round by Ibo Aslan, who earned $102,000 for the victory.
Meanwhile, Lerone Murphy, the sole British fighter on the card, earned a respectable $206,000 after securing a unanimous decision victory over UFC veteran Dan Ige.
The Ups and Downs of UFC Earnings
UFC fighters’ pay varies widely depending on the fighter’s ranking, popularity, and performance. The highest earners are typically champions or fighters involved in big-ticket fights that attract significant attention. However, for many other fighters, earnings are more modest, especially if their fights are not as high-profile or if they face early defeats.
Despite the differences in payouts, the UFC remains one of the most lucrative platforms for fighters, offering large bonuses for exceptional performances and a chance for rising stars to make a name for themselves.
The Financial Impact of UFC 308
The earnings of Ilia Topuria and Max Holloway at UFC 308 provide a fascinating look into the financial side of UFC fighting. Topuria’s knockout win secured him a massive payday, while Holloway’s enduring popularity ensured he was compensated generously despite his loss. UFC 308 highlighted the exciting nature of the sport, with fighters earning impressive sums based on their performances, but also underscored the financial disparities that exist within the organization.
As UFC fans, it’s intriguing to look beyond the action in the octagon and understand the earnings that come with it. Whether fighters are victorious or not, the UFC continues to be a major platform for athletic success, both in and out of the cage.