UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev recently shared his perspective on the UFC’s upcoming changes to pay-per-view revenue distribution and how it will affect MMA stars who currently receive PPV points as part of their compensation packages.
When asked directly about the elimination of pay-per-view deductions starting next year and what replacement the UFC is offering to prevent champions from losing money, Makhachev provided insight into the complexities of MMA star contracts and his personal approach to negotiations.
“You know, probably, well, probably, our media is not aware that each MMA star has an exclusive contract. Some people negotiate without PPV some negotiate with some percentage some can say: ‘I sign a contract with such and such a fee but agree to a small part of the PPV,'” Makhachev explained. “And because of this everyone is different.”
The Dagestani champion acknowledged seeing news about the elimination of pay-per-view previews for tournaments but admitted he hadn’t thoroughly analyzed the changes. However his manager Ali Abdelaziz provided reassurance about the new structure.
“I said: ‘What kind of news is this? What changes?’ He told me himself that this new contract would only make things better for all the MMA stars and everyone’s conditions would improve,” Makhachev stated.
Regarding his own financial structure Makhachev revealed that PPV points don’t significantly impact his earnings due to his contract terms.
“I don’t get a big percentage from the PPV because I have contract terms that I have a guaranteed fee,” he said. “And there are small amounts for me personally in PPV small amounts.”
The champion explained his strategic approach to contract negotiations particularly considering his frequent matches in Abu Dhabi where PPV numbers are typically lower.
“When we signed the new contract we did having thought about it that sometimes I compete in Abu Dhabi which may be unprofitable somewhere. And because of this the main emphasis was placed on the contract itself,” he noted.
