“Bad for Everybody”: Joe Rogan and Francis Ngannou Slam UFC’s Pay Structure, Praise Boxing’s Approach
In a gripping conversation that aired on the JRE MMA Show, Joe Rogan and Francis Ngannou took aim at the UFC’s complex and often controversial pay structure, contrasting it with the more straightforward compensation model in boxing. The discussion, which offers an unfiltered look into the intricacies of fighter pay, has ignited debate across the combat sports community.
Francis Ngannou, who left the UFC under a cloud of dissatisfaction with his contract, laid bare his grievances during the podcast. “I was trying to even negotiate an ambassador role for Africa with the UFC,” Ngannou revealed, reflecting on his departure. “But they just brushed it off, saying it wasn’t possible. I got tired of the constant drama.”
Ngannou’s move to boxing, where he has fought high-profile matches against Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua, highlights a stark contrast in how fighters are compensated. In boxing, according to Ngannou, the payout is typically outlined in the contract rather than being subject to win bonuses that can be slashed by controversial judges’ decisions.
A Comparison of Pay Structures
Joe Rogan echoed Ngannou’s sentiments, criticizing the UFC’s system. “I like boxing’s setup better, where you have a contract. You’re going to get paid $10 million, whatever it is, that’s what you get,” Rogan explained. The concern, he noted, is that UFC fighters often see their earnings diminished due to unfavorable decisions. “You don’t get $10 million, but you only get five million if a shitty judge gives it to the other guy,” Rogan added. This inherent risk, he argues, makes the system problematic for fighters and fans alike.
Ngannou’s departure from the UFC was not merely a financial decision. “Dana White even offered me more money, but it wasn’t just about the money,” Ngannou confessed. “I wanted to contribute to my community and have a meaningful role, and the UFC didn’t support that vision.” The PFL, in contrast, offered Ngannou the opportunity he was seeking, including a role as the PFL Africa chairman.
The PFL Opportunity
Ngannou’s transition to the Professional Fighters League (PFL) has been marked by a sense of fulfillment and opportunity. “The PFL showed me a clear roadmap. They said, ‘We’re launching PFL Africa 2025, and you’ll be the chairman,’” Ngannou shared. This commitment to a significant role within the organization was a major factor in his decision to join the PFL. Ngannou’s departure from the UFC, therefore, was as much about his career trajectory and personal goals as it was about financial considerations.
Despite his setbacks in boxing—losing to both Fury and Joshua—Ngannou has earned accolades for his performances and is set to return to MMA later this year. His future bouts in the PFL promise to be eagerly anticipated as he continues to forge his path in combat sports.
So, they declared, “No one wants to see “William Scull” lmao.”
They pointed out, “IBF is what wbc used to be. Benavidez should’ve went their route instead of believing in that wbc fraud Suliman.”
They announced, “Good it’s pathetic he gets to pick and choose he’s mandatory and when there called.”
The comment read, “Stripping Canelo for fighting the hardest puncher in the division over some unknown Cuban is crazy.”
They wrote, “Whoever is buying Canelo PPV’s need to stop. He’s disrespecting the sport at this point. Has not had a meaningful fight in 3 years.”
They commented, “Something the WBC needs too do.”
The Bigger Picture
The discussion between Rogan and Ngannou underscores a broader issue within the combat sports industry: the disparity between pay structures in different fighting disciplines. While boxing offers a more predictable financial outcome, the UFC’s model, influenced by unpredictable judging and contract terms, remains contentious.
Rogan’s critique highlights a critical gap in how fighters are valued and compensated, while Ngannou’s move to the PFL represents a shift towards a more equitable and transparent system. As the combat sports world watches these developments unfold, the dialogue about fighter pay and the value of their roles within their respective promotions is more relevant than ever.
