Adesanya Demands $15m Per Fight, Citing Zuffa Boxing Paydays

By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

Former two-time UFC middleweight champion, Israel Adesanya has requested a $15 million purse per fight from UFC president Dana White. He justifies this demand by pointing to the massive payday reportedly given to British boxer Conor Benn by Zuffa Boxing, which is the same parent company that operates the UFC.

Adesanya explained on his YouTube channel that the high earnings in boxing reveal what elite fighters in his position should be earning. Regarding the disparity between boxing and MMA pay, he stated, “This is the UFC. And if one guy can command that kind of money for one fight, and that’s from the same company, Zuffa I don’t feel jaded, but I’m like, f*** it, I want $15 million for one fight too”.

The 36-year-old Nigerian-born striker is currently training for a high-stakes comeback against Joe Pyfer at UFC Fight Night 271 in Seattle this March. This return follows a year-long hiatus after his TKO loss to Nassourdine Imavov in early 2025.

Despite being on a three-fight losing streak and entering a bout as a betting underdog for the first time, Adesanya maintains a high level of confidence. Describing his current mindset, he said, “I just feel unstoppable. Everything I’ve done in this game has been for this moment in my life now. And now that it’s here, I just feel I can’t be messed with”.