Fighter Pay in Combat Sports: Is It Enough?

In the world of combat sports—boxing, MMA (Mixed Martial Arts), and kickboxing—fighters put their bodies, health, and careers on the line every time they step into the ring or cage. While fans see the glory of a knockout or championship win, the reality behind the scenes is far more complex, particularly when it comes to fighter pay. The question many are beginning to ask: do fighters get paid enough, and should they be paid more?

The Pay Structure Across Combat Sports

1. Boxing

Boxing remains the most lucrative combat sport at the elite level. Top fighters like Canelo Álvarez, Tyson Fury, and Gervonta Davis often make tens of millions per fight, thanks to pay-per-view (PPV) revenue, sponsorships, and large promotional deals. For instance, Floyd Mayweather earned over $100 million for his bout with Conor McGregor in 2017.

However, these figures only reflect the top tier. Lower-level and up-and-coming boxers often make just a few thousand dollars per fight, and many have to work second jobs to make ends meet. Promoters, managers, and training costs often eat into their paychecks as well.

2. MMA (Mixed Martial Arts)

The UFC dominates the MMA scene, and its pay structure has been heavily scrutinized. Fighters typically earn a base pay and a win bonus, with occasional “Performance of the Night” bonuses. According to recent reports, the average UFC fighter earns around $160,000 per year, but the median is much lower.

Only a small percentage of fighters—like Conor McGregor, Israel Adesanya, or Jon Jones—reach the million-dollar mark. Most preliminary card fighters earn $10,000 to $20,000 per fight, which, after taxes and expenses, is far from glamorous.

3. Kickboxing

Kickboxing, though popular in countries like Japan and the Netherlands, remains less commercially developed globally. Organizations like GLORY and ONE Championship offer some exposure, but fighter pay is generally lower than both boxing and MMA. Top-tier kickboxers may earn tens of thousands per fight, but average athletes often make under $10,000 per bout, again with little financial security.

SHOP: The Kickboxer Collection

Why the Pay Discrepancy?

Several factors contribute to the vast pay differences across and within these sports:

Revenue Control: Boxing’s decentralized model allows star fighters to negotiate their own purses, while the UFC, with centralized control, can dictate pay across the roster.

Unionization (or lack thereof): Unlike many other sports, combat sports athletes do not have a union. This means there is little collective bargaining power for better wages or conditions.

Sponsorship Restrictions: In the UFC, the exclusive outfitting deal with companies like Reebok and now Venum limits fighters’ ability to earn from personal sponsorships, a major income source in other sports.

Event Frequency and Exposure: MMA and kickboxing fighters often fight only a few times a year. Injuries, cancellations, and matchmaking delays can limit earning potential.

Should Fighters Be Paid More?

From both ethical and economic perspectives, there is a strong argument that fighters deserve higher compensation:

Risk vs. Reward: Fighters suffer significant physical trauma, including concussions, broken bones, and long-term neurological damage. Careers are short, and retirement benefits are virtually nonexistent.

Revenue Generation: Combat sports events can generate millions in revenue, and yet only a small percentage of that money goes to the athletes. For example, UFC fighters reportedly receive only about 15–20% of the organization’s total revenue, compared to over 50% in leagues like the NFL or NBA.

Fair Competition: A more equitable pay structure could help retain top talent, improve training standards, and foster better competition across the board.