Croatian MMA star Roberto Soldić has sent a clear message to critics questioning his recent career choices. He also addressed the ongoing speculation about his future in mixed martial arts.
Soldić took to Instagram to respond to the wave of commentary surrounding his appearance in Poland’s FAME MMA organization, where he faced veteran boxer Tomasz Adamek. His decision to step into the boxing ring has sparked debate within the regional combat sports community, with fans and analysts questioning whether an athelete of his caliber should be taking such matchups.
Soldić’s response was unambiguous and revealing about the business realities facing professional competitors today. “I have a ONE Championship contract currently and I’m waiting for a match because I recently completed a bout,” he explained. “The boxing situation worked out because ONE allowed that bout, because I don’t want to compete in the UFC for $50,000 and still have to wait tables on Saturdays somewhere to be able to pay for my training camps.”
This statement pulls back the curtain on the financial challenges that many professional competitors face, even at the highest levels of the sport. While the UFC represents the pinnacle of MMA for many fans and contenders, Soldić’s comments highlight a harsh reality. Not every competitor in the organization’s roster enjoys the multi-million dollar paydays reserved for its biggest stars.
The Croatian’s position has been strengthened by recent events in the octagon. Until this past weekend’s UFC 309, Soldić held the distinction of being the last man to defeat current middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis, before Khamzat Chimaev’s victory over the South African.
As a former two-time KSW champion, Soldić has consistently demonstrated his willingness to forge his own path rather than follow conventional expectations.
