Ex-UFC Title Challenger Makes Eye-Opening ‘Money’ Admission on Leaving UFC to Pursue Boxing Career Former title challenger thrives in boxing after leaving UFC, highlighting fight pay issues with Dana

Despite UFC’s meteoric growth, Dana White & Co.’s reputation for shortchanging fighters remains unchanged. This criticism is a recurring theme, especially among former fighters. The so-called “red panty night” payouts favor only the top stars—leaving the majority earning as little as $12,000 per fight. Critics like YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul have repeatedly called out UFC leadership, urging a minimum fighter pay of $50,000. Meanwhile, numerous fighters are jumping ship to boxing and crossover boxing, drawn by higher pay and more financial security. Former UFC welterweight title contender Darren Till exemplifies this trend.

At 30, the Brit left the UFC in early 2023 after almost eight years with the promotion following a downturn in performance, going 1-5 in his last six bouts.