Sean O’Malley Responds to Conor Benn’s Reported Zuffa Deal: ‘Not Earning $15M’
In a recent statement, UFC bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley responded to reports regarding Conor Benn’s lucrative deal with Zuffa Boxing. The contract, which is rumored to be worth $15 million for a single fight, highlights the financial disparity between boxing and mixed martial arts (MMA).
Sean O’Malley’s Reaction to Conor Benn’s $15 Million Deal
O’Malley expressed skepticism about the reported contract on his YouTube channel. He admitted that it was difficult for him to believe such a substantial payout was real. “I can’t imagine it being true,” he stated. O’Malley raised concerns over the common practice of boxers earning significantly higher salaries than UFC fighters.
The Financial Divide in Combat Sports
- Boxers, such as Conor Benn, can earn the lion’s share of event revenue.
- UFC fighters generally receive about 20% of the promotion’s total earnings.
Due to this pay structure, O’Malley noted that even without a major title, Benn’s earnings could surpass those of established UFC fighters. “If they really paid him $15 million, it’s crazy how you put in so much work in the UFC,” O’Malley remarked, emphasizing the effort fighters invest to build their brands.
Possible Motivations Behind the Deal
O’Malley also speculated on the motivations behind Zuffa Boxing’s decision to sign Benn. He suggested that the rivalry between Dana White and other boxing promoters, like Oscar De La Hoya and Eddie Hearn, could play a role. “Dana really wants to do it because he hates Oscar De La Hoya and Eddie Hearn,” he said. “I could see it being out of an ego thing.”
As the landscape of combat sports continues to evolve, O’Malley’s comments reflect the ongoing dialogue about fighter compensation. While the UFC establishes itself as a major player, the contrasting financial structures of boxing and MMA remain a critical concern for fighters.
