Rogan Blasts UFC Pay Structure On Podcast

Joe Rogan called the UFC's win bonus pay structure the promotion's biggest flaw during a recent podcast appearance.

The longtime UFC commentator took issue with the standard contract model that pays fighters a set amount to show and an equal amount only if they win. Most of the roster operates under this system, though champions and veterans sometimes negotiate different terms. Rogan told listeners the setup drives him crazy.

Why Rogan Wants Guaranteed Fighter Pay

"That is the most bullshit part of the UFC, you get both your paychecks only if you win," Rogan said, per MMA Fighting. "I hate it. That drives me nuts."

Rogan argued that poor judging, bad officiating, and freak injuries can cost fighters tens of thousands of dollars after months of training camp. He believes the outcome-based model punishes athletes for factors outside their control. Fighters already give maximum effort regardless of the bonus structure, he said, so the win incentive serves no real purpose at the highest level.

"There's no one who's fighting harder because you think you're going to get a win bonus," Rogan said. "You're fighting as hard as you possibly can."

The UFC's compensation practices have drawn criticism from fans and media for years. Rogan added that even skilled matchups can produce slow fights when styles cancel each other out, meaning fighters could lose half their pay through no fault of their own.

Reported via:

• MMA Fighting — Morning Report: Joe Rogan reveals what he considers ‘the most bullsh*t part of the UFC’