Conor McGregor Credited by UFC Legend Daniel Cormier for Fighter Pay Rise Despite Immense Debate

Daniel Cormier revealed his initial thoughts on Conor McGregor's success and how it shaped the UFC's compensation system.

Conor McGregor Credited by UFC Legend Daniel Cormier for Fighter Pay Rise Despite Immense Debate

Daniel Cormier credits Conor McGregor for fighter pay (via SPORTbible, MMA Mania)

Conor McGregor’s rise inside the UFC changed how fighters could become global attractions. The Irishman laid the blueprint for greater financial success in mixed martial arts, remaining a major figure despite numerous controversies. UFC Hall of Famer Daniel Cormier recently reflected on his initial thoughts about McGregor and his lasting financial impact on the sport.

McGregor and Cormier both made their UFC debuts in April 2013. Cormier arrived as an Olympic wrestler and established Strikeforce star, while McGregor entered as a young contender after leaving Cage Warriors. Despite Cormier’s reputation, the Irishman soon became the UFC’s biggest global attraction in the coming years.

‘The Notorious’ earned millions through UFC purses, pay-per-view points, and bonuses during his championship run. Court documents revealed payouts exceeding $25 million across five fights between UFC 189 and UFC 205. Cormier recently admitted he initially felt jealous after witnessing the Irishman’s earning power.

When I started fighting, if a person made 100 grand a fight, it was BIG money. You get six figures, it was big money. But when Conor McGregor came, that was when things changed. When Conor McGregor came, bro, I was so jealous too, because he was so popular.

Daniel Cormier via In the Bayou podcast

McGregor’s success also helped elevate the UFC into a global sports powerhouse. He headlined most of the promotion’s highest-selling pay-per-view events, transforming its commercial reach. Cormier noted that fighters once earned modest purses, while McGregor eventually reached eight-figure UFC paydays.

I didn’t realize because he came and moved the line single-handedly. If you were a champion in the UFC, you made a million dollars. But then when Conor got there, Conor was getting like ten and twelve. So now as a champion you’re like, ‘I don’t need what Conor needs, but what about three?

Daniel Cormier added

While Cormier has consistently praised McGregor’s accomplishments, he has also addressed the darker aspects of the Irishman’s career. The UFC Hall of Famer previously suggested the sale of McGregor’s Proper No. Twelve whiskey brand in a deal reportedly worth up to $600 million significantly affected his mindset and career trajectory.

The two former two-division champions have also shared memorable moments outside the Octagon. Before McGregor’s fight with Dustin Poirier, Cormier asked if being from Lafayette made him a hillbilly. McGregor immediately replied by calling him a “ghetto hillbilly,” leaving Cormier momentarily speechless.

However, UFC CEO Dana White previously credited McGregor’s success to his unmatched self-belief and ability to deliver on his predictions. White described the Irishman as a rare “unicorn,” explaining that McGregor repeatedly accomplished everything he promised inside the Octagon.

Fighter pay remains one of MMA’s biggest debates despite the UFC’s continued growth. White has often defended the promotion by pointing to McGregor’s financial success. Cormier’s recent comments again highlighted the Irish superstar’s lasting impact on fighter earnings.

RELATED
Daniel Cormier Admits He Wanted to Slap Conor McGregor for ‘Hillbilly’ Insult

Conor McGregor gives update on ongoing rehabilitation after UFC 329 disappointment

Conor McGregor’s highly anticipated UFC return ended in devastating fashion at UFC 329 after a sudden knee injury halted his fight against Max Holloway. The Irishman suffered the setback just seconds into the bout after attempting a kick, forcing a stoppage after only 69 seconds.

McGregor has remained vocal about his knee recovery since the UFC 329 setback. The Irishman recently shared footage of himself training backstage before the fight, showing him landing multiple kicks. McGregor claimed the video dismissed doubts surrounding any pre-existing injury before his return.

Conor McGregor
Conor McGregor (via MMA Fighting)

McGregor has also provided updates regarding the torn ACL and meniscus injury in his right knee. The former two-division champion revealed he is ready to undergo surgery while remaining optimistic about a final fight in the future. He recently shared a video confirming his health before undergoing the fifth surgery of his career.

Surgery number 5 of my career. All things considered, that is an ok number!

Conor McGregor via Instagram

Conor McGregor is now 38 years old and is in the final stages of his fighting career. The global superstar has endured multiple injuries, including previous surgeries on his leg and ankle. His upcoming fifth career surgery adds another challenge as he attempts to secure one final return to competition.

Also Read: