Israel Adesanya Demands $15 Million Per Fight After Conor Benn’s Payday
Israel Adesanya, a former two-time middleweight champion, recently expressed his thoughts on the state of fighter pay within the UFC. He addressed his feelings regarding the lucrative contracts being offered in the new initiative, Zuffa Boxing, especially after Conor Benn reportedly signed a $15 million deal for one fight.
Adesanya’s Perspective on UFC Fighter Pay
During a discussion on his YouTube channel, Adesanya reflected on the implications of the UFC’s deal with Paramount. He commented on how this might influence Dana White and the UFC’s strategies moving forward.
“They have the NFL and the NBA of combat sports,” said Adesanya, referring to the UFC’s dominance in the industry. He noted that White’s decision to branch into boxing with Zuffa Boxing aims to replicate this success.
Protest for Fair Compensation
Adesanya highlighted the disparity in pay, expressing his desire to earn a similar amount to what Benn received. He stated, “If one guy can command that kind of money for one fight, and that’s from the same company, Zuffa, then what about us?”
Upcoming Challenges in the UFC
Despite his frustrations, Adesanya is focused on his upcoming bout against Joe Pyfer, scheduled for March 28 in Seattle. He emphasized his commitment to the UFC, stating, “This is what we love. We love Ultimate Fighting, not Limited Fighting.”
Broader Reactions from the UFC Community
- Max Holloway urged fellow fighters to understand their worth, citing Zuffa Boxing’s financial model.
- Charles Oliveira indicated his interest in a match with Conor McGregor purely for monetary reasons.
- Raul Rosas Jr. shared the sacrifices he made to pursue his UFC dream.
As Zuffa Boxing continues to make headlines with high-profile signings, fighter compensation discussions are likely to intensify within the UFC. Adesanya’s comments reflect a growing concern among athletes seeking fair recognition for their contributions to the sport.
