Dana White has definitively addressed concerns surrounding fighter pay following the landmark $7.7 billion broadcast deal inked with Paramount and CBS. The UFC president’s comments, delivered during a recent appearance on the ‘Pardon My Take’ podcast, provide a clear and substantial commitment to increasing fighter compensation. Previously, White had offered vague assurances, primarily focusing on bonuses, but now he’s outlining a concrete plan driven by the significant revenue generated by the new agreement. The deal effectively ends the UFC’s reliance on pay-per-view (PPV) events, a model that White had previously described as ‘eating what you kill’ in terms of revenue distribution. This shift represents a fundamental change in the UFC’s financial structure, allowing for a more predictable and substantial injection of funds directly into fighter purses. White emphasized that the sheer scale of the deal – the largest in sports history – necessitates a corresponding increase in compensation for the athletes who drive the sport’s popularity. He stated that the mathematical implications of such a lucrative agreement demand a corresponding adjustment to fighter pay, ensuring that the talent at the heart of the UFC receives a fair share of the spoils.

Previously, White had offered vague assurances, primarily focusing on bonuses, but now he’s outlining a concrete plan driven by the significant revenue generated by the new agreement. The deal effectively ends the UFC’s reliance on pay-per-view (PPV) events, a model that White had previously described as ‘eating what you kill’ in terms of revenue distribution. This shift represents a fundamental change in the UFC’s financial structure, allowing for a more predictable and substantial injection of funds directly into fighter purses. White emphasized that the sheer scale of the deal – the largest in sports history – necessitates a corresponding increase in compensation for the athletes who drive the sport’s popularity. He stated that the mathematical implications of such a lucrative agreement demand a corresponding adjustment to fighter pay, ensuring that the talent at the heart of the UFC receives a fair share of the spoils. The UFC’s financial model was heavily reliant on PPV, a system that often left fighters with a disproportionately small share of the revenue generated by their performances.

White emphasized that the sheer scale of the deal – the largest in sports history – necessitates a corresponding increase in compensation for the athletes who drive the sport’s popularity. He stated that the mathematical implications of such a lucrative agreement demand a corresponding adjustment to fighter pay, ensuring that the talent at the heart of the UFC receives a fair share of the spoils. The UFC’s financial model was heavily reliant on PPV, a system that often left fighters with a disproportionately small share of the revenue generated by their performances. This new deal, with its substantial revenue stream, allows for a more equitable distribution of funds, recognizing the immense value that fighters bring to the organization. The focus is now on providing a sustainable and rewarding environment for the athletes who are the foundation of the UFC’s success.

Since acquiring the company in 2001, White has consistently maintained a trajectory of increasing fighter pay, a trend that he asserts will continue with this new broadcast deal. He highlights that every new agreement has resulted in enhanced compensation for the athletes, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to recognizing and rewarding the talent within the organization. Beyond the direct financial boost, White also underscored the increased exposure fighters will gain through the Paramount and CBS partnership. With the ability to reach a broader audience through the $12.99 subscription model – significantly higher than the previous $80+ PPV price – fighters will benefit from increased viewership and brand recognition. This expanded reach translates to greater opportunities and, ultimately, higher earning potential. The shift away from PPV allows for a more sustainable and lucrative financial model, directly benefiting the athletes who are the core of the UFC’s success.

With the ability to reach a broader audience through the $12.99 subscription model – significantly higher than the previous $80+ PPV price – fighters will benefit from increased viewership and brand recognition. This expanded reach translates to greater opportunities and, ultimately, higher earning potential. The shift away from PPV allows for a more sustainable and lucrative financial model, directly benefiting the athletes who are the core of the UFC’s success. The new broadcast deal represents a strategic move to maximize fighter earnings while simultaneously expanding the UFC’s reach and influence.

Furthermore, White addressed concerns regarding the future of long-time commentator Joe Rogan, reassuring fans that he will remain a fixture of the UFC’s broadcast team. Despite the financial implications of the deal, White insists that Rogan’s position is secure, stating that his continued presence is unaffected. He acknowledged Rogan’s past contributions, noting that he volunteered his time for the first 12 events without compensation and that his value to the organization extends beyond monetary considerations. White even suggested that Rogan could be involved in UFC Fight Nights and the Contender Series if he weren’t constrained by his existing commitments, highlighting his enduring importance to the UFC’s brand and appeal. The commitment to Rogan's continued involvement further solidifies the UFC’s dedication to maintaining a stable and experienced commentary team, adding to the overall appeal and credibility of the broadcasts. The deal, therefore, isn’t just about increased revenue; it’s about securing the future of the sport’s most recognizable and respected voice.