UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski recently shared insights into the changing landscape of UFC pay-per-view economics and the sport’s current star power dynamics. He talked about it during an appearance on the FLAGRANT podcast.
The Australian champion revealed massive changes in how the UFC’s pay-per-view system operates. He explained that the traditional model has shifted dramatically.
“The pay-per-view system isn’t as good as it used to be,” Volkanovski stated. “The way it works is just a little bit different now.”
According to Volkanovski, contenders now only receive pay-per-view points on certain events. Additionally, the reported buy numbers don’t reflect the full picture.
“You only get paid on certain pay-per-views,” he explained. “When you see the pay-per-views buys, you’re only seeing only a couple of countries and you know, it’s only over $40 as well.”
The champion highlighted how subscription-based models in markets like England aren’t included in traditional pay-per-view metrics. “In England, it’s a subscription base. So you’re not including any of those. There’s only like I think three or four countries that contribute to the actual pay-per-view.”
This shift has created challenges for UFC competitors seeking substantial paydays. While Volkanovski acknowledged that money can still be made with the right fights, he noted it’s “pretty hard” under the current system.
“You can still make money like the right fights, just it’s very hard,” he said, adding that having major stars like Conor McGregor or Jon Jones on a card can significantly impact earnings potential.
The numbers reflect this change, with Volkanovski explaining that pay-per-view events now generating 300,000 to 400,000 buys are considered “really good.” This is a stark contrast to the million-plus buy events that once defined blockbuster UFC cards.
When discussing the sport’s star power, Volkanovski acknowledged the UFC faces challenges but expressed optimism about emerging talent. He pointed to fighters like Ilia Topuria and rising contenders as the next generation of stars.
“There is so many good fighters coming through,” he noted, mentioning prospects like Joshua Van and Aaron Pico as examples of the talent pipeline.
The champion also reflected on the natural ebb and flow of star power in combat sports, comparing it to other entertainment industries. He suggested that while the UFC may currently have fewer iconic names than in previous eras, new stars will inevitably emerge to fill that void.
