Sean Strickland Openly Calls UFC ‘Predatory’ Despite Recent Buzz Around $7 Billion Paramount Deal

UFC middleweight contender Sean Strickland calls out UFC for low fighter compensation even after $7.7 billion deal.

Sean Strickland Openly Calls UFC ‘Predatory’ Despite Recent Buzz Around $7 Billion Paramount Deal

Sean Strickland argues over UFC fighter pay (via Bloody Elbow)

In Short
  • Sean Strickland criticizes UFC for low fighter pay, calling it "predatory" compared to other sports.
  • The UFC secured a $7.7 billion media rights deal with Paramount Global, starting in 2026.
  • Dana White defends UFC compensation, stating fighters are paid based on the value they generate.

Fighter compensation in UFC has long been debated, particularly regarding revenue sharing, discretionary bonuses, and the absence of collective bargaining despite rising broadcast deals. CEO Dana White has remained under scrutiny as the promotion’s revenue has grown in recent years. Sean Strickland recently renewed attention to the issue by highlighting concerns surrounding comparatively low fighter pay.

The UFC secured a seven-year media rights agreement worth approximately $7.7 billion with Paramount Global, placing events on its streaming platform Paramount+ beginning in 2026. The deal, averaging roughly $1.1 billion annually, includes 13 numbered events and 30 Fight Nights per year, with select cards also airing on CBS. This marks a major shift in the promotion’s broadcast distribution strategy.

Strickland has repeatedly criticized compensation in the UFC and previously challenged White over the overall distribution of revenue. He recently maintained that fighters are not receiving a fair share relative to the risks of competing and has pointed to their limited negotiating leverage. He noted that declining a bout can quickly lead to replacement, which has set up his latest pointed public remarks on the issue.

If you compare it to pay vs. athletes vs. what they’re making, there is no argument there. It’s not fair. It’s predatory… I would just like it to match other sporting events. You’re slowly going to see the American roster die because they’ll outsource people. You’ll make more money at Walmart, dude.

Sean Strickland via Complex

These remarks from Strickland arrive during a heated stretch for the controversial middleweight, who is under heightened scrutiny following his first press conference tied to the Paramount+ broadcast. During that appearance, he faced backlash over homophobic comments referencing Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl performance and separate remarks that diminished the credibility of women’s MMA.

White has consistently defended the UFC against criticism over fighter compensation, maintaining that athletes are paid in line with the value they generate. He has stated that fighters understand the terms of their contracts and the financial structure before agreeing to compete. White has also emphasized that higher payouts often depend on an athlete’s ability to build their profile and elevate their standing.

Sean Strickland has repeatedly criticized Dana White over what he describes as low fighter pay within the UFC, keeping the issue in focus. Despite his stance, the former middleweight champion is reported to have an estimated net worth of about $4 million as of mid-2025. His continued criticism highlights the tension between individual earnings and the promotion’s expanding commercial success.

Sean Strickland reveals how his controversies affect his finances

Sean Strickland has a documented history of targeting Israel Adesanya with inflammatory remarks during the buildup to their title clash at UFC 293, including comments tied to the latter’s time in China. The promotion featured repeated verbal attacks before Strickland secured a unanimous decision victory to win the middleweight title. He has also made degrading comments aimed at fighters from China.

Sean Strickland talks about his recent suspension
Sean Strickland talks about his recent suspension (via X)

Strickland has maintained a reputation as one of the most controversial figures in the UFC, embracing an unfiltered public persona. While this has not led to formal promotional discipline, it has drawn criticism from fellow fighters and parts of the MMA community. That context framed his recent admission that he might have earned more money had he not been so outspoken, particularly regarding his views on China.

China would give me more money if I pulled an Izzy or something. Having to go through life like that sounds boring.

Sean Strickland via Deportes Premiera Fila

Strickland’s remarks reflect the tension between authenticity and marketability in modern mixed martial arts as the UFC expands globally. Fighter branding and public image increasingly influence sponsorship value and event revenue. His situation underscores how outspoken positions can build a following while potentially limiting broader commercial opportunities.

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