The UFC is the most popular and prestigious mixed martial arts (MMA) promotion in the world. It features some of the best fighters from various disciplines, such as boxing, wrestling, karate, jiu-jitsu, and more. But how much do the UFC fighters get paid for their hard work and dedication? Who are the highest paid fighters in UFC in 2024? And what factors determine their earnings?
In this article, we will answer these questions and reveal the 20 highest-paid UFC fighters ever as of 2024. Whether you are a fan of MMA, a aspiring fighter, or just curious about the sport, you will find this article informative and interesting. So, let’s get started!
The highest paid fighter in the UFC is Conor McGregor who earns $39,300,000 followed by Khabib Nurmagomedov, Alistair Overeem, Anderson Silva, Andrei Arlovski.
20 Highest Paid Fighters in UFC History ever
| Players | Earnings |
|---|---|
| Conor McGregor | $39,300,000 |
| Khabib Nurmagomedov | $22,900,000 |
| Alistair Overeem | $15,400,500 |
| Anderson Silva | $13,500,000 |
| Andrei Arlovski | $11,200,000 |
| Michael Bisping | $11,100,000 |
| Junior Dos Santos | $11,000,000 |
| Georges St-Pierre | $10,950,000 |
| Jon Jones | $10,900,000 |
| Donald Cerrone | $10,600,000 |
| Daniel Cormier | $10,200,000 |
| Mark Hunt | $9,800,000 |
| Stipe Miocic | $9,400,000 |
| Vitor Belfort | $9,000,000 |
| Dan Henderson | $8,500,000 |
| Brock Lesnar | $5,295,000 |
| Jose Aldo | $5,270,500 |
| Mauricio Rua | $5,270,000 |
| Frankie Edgar | $5,158,000 |
| Lyoto Machida | $5,035,000 |
Top 5 Highest Paid Fighters in UFC in 2024
According to various sources, these are the 5 highest paid UFC fighters ever in terms of career earnings from the UFC only, excluding other sources of income such as sponsorships, endorsements, and PPV shares. The numbers are based on disclosed pay and may not reflect the actual amount that the fighters received.
1. Conor McGregor – $39,300,000
The number one spot goes to UFC’s golden boy, Conor McGregor. The Irish superstar is not only the most famous and popular fighter in the UFC, but also the most lucrative one. He has headlined some of the biggest PPV events in UFC history, such as UFC 229 against Khabib Nurmagomedov, which sold 2.4 million buys.
2. Khabib Nurmagomedov – $22,900,000
The second highest paid UFC fighter ever is the undefeated and undisputed lightweight champion, Khabib Nurmagomedov. The Russian phenom has dominated his division with his relentless wrestling and grappling skills, finishing 11 of his 13 UFC fights by submission or TKO.
He has also been involved in some of the most anticipated and heated rivalries in the sport, such as with McGregor, Dustin Poirier, and Justin Gaethje. His highest paid UFC fight was at UFC 254 against Gaethje, where he earned $6,090,000.
3. Alistair Overeem – $15,400,500
The third highest paid UFC fighter ever is the veteran heavyweight, Alistair Overeem. The Dutch fighter has been competing in MMA since 1999, and has fought in various promotions such as Pride, Strikeforce, Dream, and K-1. He has also won multiple titles and tournaments in kickboxing and MMA, such as the Strikeforce heavyweight title, the Dream heavyweight title, and the K-1 World Grand Prix.
He has faced some of the best heavyweights in the UFC, such as Brock Lesnar, Fabricio Werdum, Junior dos Santos, and Francis Ngannou. His highest paid UFC fight was at UFC 209 against Mark Hunt, where he earned $860,000.
4. Anderson Silva – $13,500,000
The fourth highest paid UFC fighter ever is the former middleweight king, Anderson Silva. The Brazilian fighter is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most dominant fighters of all time, holding the record for the longest title reign in UFC history with 10 defenses. He has also won 16 consecutive fights in the UFC, and has earned 14 post-fight bonuses.
He has showcased his incredible striking skills and creativity against some of the best middleweights and light heavyweights in the UFC, such as Rich Franklin, Dan Henderson, Chael Sonnen, and Forrest Griffin. His highest paid UFC fight was at UFC 200 against Daniel Cormier, where he earned $820,000.
5. Andrei Arlovski – $11,200,000
The fifth highest paid UFC fighter ever is another heavyweight legend, Andrei Arlovski. The Belarusian fighter has been fighting in the UFC since 2000, and has held the UFC heavyweight title from 2005 to 2006. He has also fought in other promotions such as Affliction, Strikeforce, and WSOF.
He has faced some of the toughest opponents in the UFC, such as Tim Sylvia, Frank Mir, Stipe Miocic, and Derrick Lewis. His highest paid UFC fight was at UFC 195 against Miocic, where he earned $625,000.
Conclusion
In this article, we have learned about the highest paid UFC fighters ever. Being a UFC fighter is not an easy or simple career, but it can be rewarding and fulfilling for those who love the sport and have the passion and dedication to succeed. If you enjoyed this article, please share it with your friends and family who are interested in MMA. Thank you for reading!
