Joe Rogan Hints at Netflix Paying Above $10 Million to Steal Nate Diaz Away from UFC

UFC commentator and podcaster Joe Rogan highlights the major payday for Nate Diaz ahead of the Stockton veteran's return under MVP MMA.

Joe Rogan Hints at Netflix Paying Above $10 Million to Steal Nate Diaz Away from UFC

Joe Rogan talks about Nate Diaz's payday (via MMA Mania, Instagram)

In Short
  • Joe Rogan suggests Nate Diaz could earn over $10 million for his fight with Mike Perry under MVP MMA.
  • Diaz's return marks a significant moment as he transitions from UFC to Most Valuable Promotions.
  • The reported payday highlights ongoing concerns about fighter compensation within the UFC compared to other promotions.

Joe Rogan remains one of the most experienced voices in MMA, serving as a commentator since 1997. His long association with the UFC has led to a close friendship with CEO Dana White, offering insight into the promotion. Despite that relationship, Rogan has never been shy about criticizing fighter pay or treatment. He recently spoke about Nate Diaz’s earnings for his return under the MVP MMA banner.

Diaz built a reputation as one of the UFC’s most consistent fan favorites during his long tenure with the promotion. He last competed at UFC 279 in 2022, where he secured a submission win over Tony Ferguson to close out his UFC contract. Diaz is now set to return to MMA under the Most Valuable Promotions banner, where he will face former UFC star and BKFC champion Mike Perry in a comeback bout.

The upcoming MVP MMA card is part of Most Valuable Promotions’ expansion into MMA, though full lineup details remain limited. The event is set for the Intuit Dome in California and will stream on Netflix. During a recent conversation with Brendan Schaub and Joey Diaz, Rogan discussed the Stockton native’s return, addressing the payday after the former UFC heavyweight mentioned a $10 million figure.

I heard it was more. That’s wild. I tell you what, I think he could’ve made that same money against Conor. If Nate gets through this fight, and they set that fight up, it’s that or [Michael] Chandler.

Joe Rogan via PowerfulJRE

Rogan also referenced other notable names during the discussion, including Conor McGregor and UFC lightweight Michael Chandler. The mention is notable as Diaz had previously shown interest in returning to the UFC and even expressed a desire to fight at a proposed White House event. However, those plans ultimately did not materialize, with Diaz instead moving forward under the MVP banner for his return.

Fighter pay has become a major talking point following MVP’s entry into MMA, especially after the announcement of a headliner between Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano. Attention grew further when another bout was revealed, featuring former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou set to face Philipe Lins. The involvement of multiple high-profile fighters has increased focus on purses tied to the event.

Nate Diaz’s return adds another chapter to the career of one of MMA’s most recognizable and respected fighters. The reported $10 million payday highlights a stark contrast, as many UFC fighters do not earn that amount across their careers. The situation also aligns with Joe Rogan’s growing criticism of UFC’s pay structure, underscoring shifting dynamics in fighter pay outside the promotion.

Joe Rogan has an interesting take on the recent UFC London main event

Movsar Evloev faced Lerone Murphy in the main event of UFC London at the O2 Arena in a key featherweight clash between unbeaten contenders. Murphy started strong with his striking, while Evloev relied on his wrestling and pressure to shift momentum in the later rounds. Over five rounds, Evloev’s control proved decisive, earning him a majority decision win and preserving his undefeated record.

Joe Rogan talks about changing some rules
Joe Rogan (via X)

However, wrestle-heavy fighters have faced increased criticism in recent times due to the lack of action in their bouts. Despite that, it remains one of the most effective game plans for securing wins at the highest level. After the fight, Evloev suggested Dana White was not a supporter of his style, tying into Joe Rogan’s recent view that he may have felt pressure to adjust his approach for a more exciting performance.

Lerone didn’t land anything of significance but Evloev landed a couple of shots. The pressure that he (Evloev) must be getting to try to finish fights in strikes and strike with people.

Joe Rogan via PowerfulJRE

However, with another win secured, Movsar Evloev now appears ready to take on featherweight kingpin Alexander Volkanovski. The champion is known for his well-rounded prowess, with elite striking, grappling, and adaptability that pose a threat in any stylistic matchup. As Evloev pushes toward title contention, the challenge ahead remains steep, a reality that ties back to the broader discussion highlighted by Joe Rogan.

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