What Is The Salary Of Ufc Fighters? From Minimum Wage To Millions

You’re probably wondering how much UFC fighters make, right? It’s a popular question, and the answer isn’t always straightforward. The median annual salary for UFC athletes is $51,370. This means half of all fighters make more than that, and half make less.

Keep in mind that 43% of fighters made less than $45,000 in median yearly earnings, according to a 2024 Gitnux Market Research study. So, while there are some fighters who earn a lot of money, many fighters are actually making a much more modest income. It’s important to understand that UFC fighters are not employees, they are classified as independent contractors.

This means they are responsible for their own taxes, healthcare, and other benefits. It also means that they don’t have a guaranteed salary and are only paid for the fights they win. The amount of money a fighter earns can depend on several factors:

Their win-loss record: Fighters with a strong win-loss record are more likely to be offered bigger fights and higher purses.
Their popularity: Popular fighters, even those with less impressive records, can command higher salaries due to the audience they attract.
The type of fight: Main event fighters, particularly title fights, have the potential to earn much higher purses than those fighting on the preliminary card.
Negotiation skills: Fighters who are able to negotiate good contracts with the UFC can ensure they are paid a fair wage for their efforts.

It’s important to note that the UFC does have a system in place to help fighters earn more money. The UFC’s Athlete Retention Program provides fighters with a base salary and performance bonuses. This program is designed to help ensure that fighters are paid a fair wage and can continue to compete at a high level.