UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland has argued that mixed martial artists do not receive adequate compensation to afford retiring from the sport on their own terms. The 35-year-old American recently criticized the promotion, stating that his passion for MMA has waned due to persistent groin and shoulder injuries.
Strickland, who captured the title by defeating Khamzat Chimaev in May, expressed a desire to transition to boxing, describing it as a less physically demanding avenue with greater earning potential. He also suggested a high-profile bout against internet star Jake Paul.
Following up on these remarks via Instagram, Strickland contended that current UFC champions often destroy their reputations because they cannot walk away after a loss. “You watch these champions, they run the division and they take [a loss], and then they come back and they fight three or four times and get flatlined,” he said. “They don’t pay you enough money to walk away. The UFC builds a legacy and they don’t pay you enough. So you have to come back and ruin your legacy.”
The comments come amid renewed scrutiny regarding fighter remuneration, highlighted by boxer Conor Benn signing a reported £11 million one-fight deal with Zuffa Boxing. Critics have questioned why UFC president Dana White, who owns Zuffa Boxing, does not offer similar sums to MMA athletes under contract.
White responded to the controversy by calling the situation positive, noting that fighter pay has increased since 2001. He pointed to the UFC’s new £5.7 billion broadcast agreement with Paramount, asserting that compensation will remain healthy over the next seven years. However, data indicates the UFC allocates approximately 20% of revenue to fighters, compared to roughly 60% in boxing.
Strickland also took aim at the exclusive clauses that prevent contracted fighters from competing for other promotions. He stated that if the UFC refuses to allow a boxing switch, he intends to comply minimally. “I’m going to stick and move, and you guys will boo and I’ll boo while doing it. Just stick and move, collect my check, and then move on,” he added.
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