How much does Conor McGregor make per fight?

By Ali Hammad February 26, 2024 01:40

Conor McGregor, the former UFC two-division champion, has been a prominent figure in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA) and has garnered significant attention not only for his fighting prowess but also for his earnings. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the detailed analysis of McGregor's earnings from his fights, shedding light on the disclosed payouts, the ongoing anti-trust lawsuit, and his potential return to the octagon.

The Ongoing Anti-Trust Lawsuit

The ongoing anti-trust lawsuit against the UFC has brought to light the earnings of several MMA fighters, including Conor McGregor. The lawsuit, involving hundreds of MMA fighters, accuses the promotion of engaging in practices that hindered competition and suppressed fighter pay between 2010 and 2017.

The lawsuit, filed by multiple former fighters, accuses the promotion of engaging in practices that hindered competition, such as market monopolization and suppressing fighter pay, between 2010 and 2017.

Conor McGregor's Disclosed UFC Earnings

Earnings from Specific Fights

According to newly released documents as part of the ongoing class action lawsuit against the UFC, McGregor's earnings from his clashes with opponents, including Chad Mendes, Jose Aldo, Nate Diaz, and Eddie Alvarez in 2015 and 2016, amount to a whopping $25 million. The disclosed earnings from these five fights average approximately $5,153,168.20 per fight.

Breakdown of Payouts

UFC 189 Fight against Chad Mendes: McGregor received a payout of $3,285,000 for this fight, which he won with a second-round TKO in July 2015.
UFC 194 Fight against Jose Aldo: McGregor stunned the Brazilian in just 13 seconds to take the UFC featherweight title, earning $4,476,662 or approximately $4,536,932 (exact figure not specified), while Aldo received $2,377,699.
Bouts against Nate Diaz: McGregor engaged in two highly successful bouts against Nate Diaz in the welterweight division. For the first fight in March 2016, he received $5,576,315, and for the rematch in August, he earned $5,615,490.
UFC 205 Fight against Eddie Alvarez: McGregor defeated Alvarez to become the first simultaneous two-division champion, receiving $6,812,374 for that win.

Analysis of McGregor's Earnings

The disclosed earnings from McGregor's fights showcase the substantial payouts he received for his performances in the octagon, with an average of approximately $5,153,168.20 per fight. These figures highlight the lucrative nature of McGregor's career in the UFC and underscore his financial success as a top-tier MMA athlete.

McGregor's Potential UFC Return

Teasing a Probable UFC Return in April 2024

Despite setbacks, including a postponed fight due to issues with fulfilling the USADA's necessary drug testing standards, McGregor has hinted at a probable UFC return in April 2024. His participation as a coach on The Ultimate Fighter Season 31 alongside Michael Chandler has ignited excitement for his highly-anticipated return to the octagon.

In a recent statement, McGregor expressed his frustration and desire to return to his way of living, indicating his eagerness to make a comeback to the octagon. This potential return has sparked interest and anticipation among MMA enthusiasts and fans of the sport.

McGregor's Overall Earnings and Career Success

McGregor's Position in the Sporting Rich List

Earlier this year, it was revealed how McGregor was one of the few fighters, alongside Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, and Manny Pacquiao, to be ranked in the top 50 highest-paid athletes of all time. A study published by Sportico showed McGregor sitting at number 33 in the sporting rich list after reportedly earning $530 million during his career.

Earnings Outside of the Octagon

McGregor's financial success extends beyond his earnings from UFC fights. His entrepreneurial ventures, including the sale of his majority stake in Proper 12 whiskey and significant earnings from his boxing match against Mayweather, have contributed to his overall wealth and financial standing.

Conor McGregor's earnings per fight have been a subject of significant interest and scrutiny, particularly in light of the ongoing anti-trust lawsuit against the UFC. The disclosed payouts from his fights between 2015 and 2016, along with his potential UFC return, underscore the financial significance of his career in MMA. Furthermore, McGregor's position in the sporting rich list and his success outside of the octagon highlight the multifaceted nature of his financial achievements. As the legal proceedings continue and McGregor's career unfolds, the discussion around his earnings and financial impact on the world of MMA remains an intriguing and ongoing topic of interest.