Justin Gaethje expressed disappointment over not receiving a pay increase despite the UFC’s new deal with Paramount+, highlighting that his bonuses haven’t reached a million dollars, though he appreciates the financial support they’ve provided for his family.
Justin Gaethje is headlining the first UFC event on Paramount+, but surprisingly, that honor doesn’t come with a bigger paycheck.
Saturday night marks the start of UFC 324, kicking off a seven-year, $7.7 billion deal with Paramount. This move means all events, including those pricey pay-per-views, are now on the streaming service.
Fighters used to earn big from pay-per-view points, but that’s history now. Dana White, the UFC CEO, promises that fighter pay will increase under this new deal.
Former champ Daniel Cormier claims fighters are already seeing more money. However, Gaethje disagrees.
“I hear Daniel Cormier saying everybody is going to get paid more on this card,” Gaethje mentioned during media day. “I’m not getting one dollar more than I would have if this deal did not happen.”
Disappointing, right? It’s unclear if Gaethje had pay-per-view bonuses in his contract. Typically, only champions and select athletes get those perks.
Despite 14 UFC appearances and 14 post-fight bonuses, Gaethje feels his bank account doesn’t reflect his efforts. “To have 14 bonuses and not equal up to a million dollars is not right,” he said.
He’s earned $650,000 from 13 bonuses at $50,000 each and $300,000 for a Fight of the Night bonus at UFC 300. Total? $950,000—not the million he hoped for.
Yet, Gaethje admits the bonus money has been crucial, especially for family support. “I’m happy to achieve what I have achieved,” he shared.
Investing in a commercial property and buying a house near his parents in Arizona were smart moves. His sister rents the house now, and he’s been able to give his family gifts and vacations he never imagined.
“That’s the smartest thing I did because you can never get that time back with your family. It’s huge for me.”