Is Justin Gaethje really not getting paid more despite a massive UFC deal? Dana White says otherwise!
It seems like there might be a little crossed wire when it comes to fighter pay in the UFC, especially with the recent monumental seven-year, $7.7 billion broadcast deal signed with Paramount. UFC fighter Justin Gaethje, known for his exciting performances and a remarkable 14 post-fight bonuses, recently expressed his disappointment, noting that even with all those extra accolades, he still hasn't reached the $1 million mark. He even stated, "I’m not getting one dollar more [for UFC 324] than I would have if this deal did not happen." This sentiment suggests that the new, lucrative deal isn't immediately translating to higher earnings for every fighter.
But here's where it gets interesting. UFC CEO Dana White, when appearing on The Pat McAfee Show, addressed Gaethje's comments directly. White revealed that Gaethje was actually offered a new contract with a higher salary in anticipation of his interim title fight against Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324. According to White, Gaethje never responded to this offer. "Gaethje was offered more money, and Gaethje never responded," White clarified, adding, "[But] we’re good [with Gaethje]."
White has been a vocal proponent of the new broadcast deal, emphasizing that it's designed to increase fighter compensation. He's repeatedly stated that athletes can expect higher salaries once the deal with Paramount kicks in, a company that is reportedly more than doubling what ESPN was paying under the previous agreement. Even the post-fight bonuses, currently set at $50,000, are anticipated to see an increase, though the exact figures haven't been disclosed.
And this is the part most people miss: With the UFC now airing exclusively on Paramount+ without an extra cost to subscribers, the traditional pay-per-view bonus structure is changing. However, White assures that fighters will still benefit. He explained that the UFC has a sophisticated system in place to calculate and distribute earnings that will closely mirror the revenue generated from pay-per-view events, even without the traditional PPV model. "We’ve got really smart kids, and they can get down within single digits on how close it would be to pay them like it was a pay-per-view," White said, indicating a commitment to ensuring fighters are still rewarded for their performances.
UFC 324 marks the official launch of this new era with Paramount, featuring Gaethje in the main event for the interim lightweight championship.
Now, let's talk about it: Do you think fighters should automatically see a pay increase with new broadcast deals, or is it up to the individual to negotiate? And if Gaethje was indeed offered more money, why do you think he didn't respond? Share your thoughts in the comments below – we'd love to hear your take!
