Highest-Paid UFC Fighters of 2025: Top-Earning Stars Revealed
2024 has been a lucrative year for several UFC fighters, with some stars earning millions through fight purses, PPV points, and endorsements. The earning potential in the UFC varies widely depending on a fighter’s popularity, ranking, and brand power. Let’s take a closer look at the top-earning UFC fighters of the year and how they’re raking in the cash.
1. Conor McGregor
- Estimated Earnings: Over $5 million per fight
- Main Revenue Sources: Fight purse, PPV bonuses, endorsements
Despite limited Octagon appearances, Conor McGregor remains the UFC’s biggest star and highest earner. In 2024, his return to the UFC against Michael Chandler at UFC 303 reportedly earned him a base pay of $5 million. But that’s not the end – McGregor’s earnings balloon with his share of PPV points, as his fights consistently attract millions of viewers. McGregor continues to benefit from his ventures outside the Octagon, such as his Proper No. Twelve whiskey brand endorsement deals with companies like Reebok and his partnership with the gaming platform Dystopia: Contest of Heroes.
McGregor’s charisma and fighting style make him one of the most marketable athletes globally, securing him sponsorships that boost his earnings far beyond what most fighters make.
2. Israel Adesanya
- Estimated Earnings: $1.5 million per fight
- Main Revenue Sources: Base pay, PPV points, brand deals
The reigning middleweight champion, Israel Adesanya, has become one of the most popular fighters in the UFC, with a fan following that spans the globe. Adesanya’s estimated $1.5 million per fight includes his base pay, PPV points, and big-fight bonuses. Known for his showmanship and unique striking style, Adesanya commands attention inside and outside the Octagon, leading to sponsorships with brands like Puma and engagement with the NFT market. His high-profile bouts continue to make him a reliable earner in the UFC.
3. Kamaru Usman
- Estimated Earnings: Around $1 million per fight
- Main Revenue Sources: Fight purse, PPV share
Even without holding the title, former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman remains one of the UFC’s top earners. He is known for his wrestling dominance and well-rounded skills, and his fights are big draws, especially when matched against well-known opponents. Usman’s experience and reputation allow him to command approximately $1 million per fight, and as a headliner, he also receives a cut from PPV sales. While no longer the reigning champion, his consistent performance keeps him among the UFC’s elite earners.
4. Amanda Nunes
- Estimated 2024 Earnings: $1 million per fight
- Main Revenue Sources: Base pay, PPV points, endorsements
Amanda Nunes, the undisputed queen of women’s MMA, remains one of the UFC’s highest-paid fighters. Her dominance across two divisions (bantamweight and featherweight) has solidified her place as one of the greatest fighters in the sport. Nunes’ reported earnings of $1 million per fight are bolstered by PPV points, especially for title defenses. Additionally, her position as a pioneer in women’s MMA has secured her endorsement deals, making her one of the top earners in the sport.
5. Sean O’Malley
- Estimated 2024 Earnings: Up to $3.3 million per fight (including PPV)
- Main Revenue Sources: Base pay, PPV points, endorsements
Bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley has rapidly climbed the earnings ladder thanks to his exciting fighting style and magnetic personality. His main event at UFC 306 reportedly earned him up to $3.3 million, making him one of the highest-paid fighters in the division. Known for his flashy performances and bold personality, O’Malley is highly marketable, attracting sponsors and a loyal fanbase. His unique style, inside and outside the Octagon, has made him one of the UFC’s fastest-rising stars.
6. Alexander Volkanovski
- Estimated 2024 Earnings: Around $750,000 per fight
- Main Revenue Sources: Base pay, PPV points
Featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski is recognized as one of the pound-for-pound, the best fighters in the UFC. At UFC 298, Volkanovski reportedly led the payroll with a $750,000 purse, excluding PPV points. His consistent success and dominance in the featherweight division have made him a reliable headliner, which translates to higher earnings. His calm personality and respectful approach have gained him a large fan base and consistent fight-night revenue.
7. Jorge Masvidal
- Estimated 2024 Earnings: $5 million per fight
- Main Revenue Sources: Fight purse, PPV share
Veteran fighter Jorge Masvidal, known for his “BMF” persona, remains a giant draw in the UFC. In 2024, he reportedly earned $5 million for his fight against Kamaru Usman, highlighting the value of high-profile matchups. With his charisma and fan appeal, Masvidal continues to secure PPV points and paydays that keep him near the top of the earnings list. His street-fighter persona and exciting fighting style ensure he’s one of the UFC’s top-paid fighters.
8. Merab Dvalishvili
- Estimated 2024 Earnings: Over $1.3 million per fight
- Main Revenue Sources: Base pay, PPV bonuses
Bantamweight contender Merab Dvalishvili has seen a considerable increase in earnings in 2024. At UFC 306, he reportedly earned over $1.3 million, including his base pay and PPV bonuses. Known for his relentless pace and energy in the Octagon, Dvalishvili has become a fan favorite, boosting his earnings as he climbs the ranks in the bantamweight division.
9. Larissa Pacheco (PFL)
- Estimated 2024 Earnings: $2 million
- Main Revenue Sources: PFL tournament winnings, sponsorships
While not a UFC fighter, Larissa Pacheco has earned significant sums in the Professional Fighters League (PFL), demonstrating that money can be made outside the UFC. Pacheco has solidified her financial success with a reported $2 million in earnings from the PFL tournament in 2024. This reflects the growing earning potential in alternative MMA leagues.
10. Ilia Topuria
- Estimated 2024 Earnings: Six-figure purses
- Main Revenue Sources: Base pay, PPV share
Featherweight contender Ilia Topuria has emerged as a promising earner in 2024. At UFC 298, he was among the top fighters with six-figure payouts, reflecting his rising status. Known for his aggressive fighting style, Topuria is becoming a popular figure in the featherweight division, which could translate to even bigger paydays in the future.
