Story perspectives

Ronda Rousey Slams UFC Pay Ahead of Fight

3/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ronda Rousey (UFC fighter) criticized UFC pay at a conference ahead of her May 16 fight with Gina Carano.
She says the UFC has become less attractive, with athletes living in poverty.
She cited the $7.7 billion Paramount deal as evidence it should pay fighters more.
She warned that shareholder profits harm the sport and push talent elsewhere.
She said UFC CEO Dana White is no longer in control.

History

Historical Context

The UFC has faced ongoing criticism for fighter compensation, particularly highlighted in 2016 when Ronda Rousey pointed out that fighters earned less than $10,000 per fight despite the organization’s soaring revenues, including a $4 billion sale to WME-IMG. Historically, the UFC has paid fighters only 16-19% of its revenue, significantly lower than other sports leagues, prompting calls for equitable pay and potential shifts in talent to rival promotions.

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Story summary

Ronda Rousey (UFC fighter) criticized UFC pay at a conference ahead of her May 16 fight with Gina Carano.
She says the UFC has become less attractive, with athletes living in poverty.
She cited the $7.7 billion Paramount deal as evidence it should pay fighters more.
She warned that shareholder profits harm the sport and push talent elsewhere.
She said UFC CEO Dana White is no longer in control.

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