The UFC has witnessed numerous high-profile bouts that have captivated audiences worldwide. These events not only showcased exceptional athleticism but also generated substantial revenue.
With the Merge of UFC & WWE into TKO Holdings, it is apparent that both companies have made substantial moves in the financial world of combat sports.
Today we look into the Top 5 Grossing UFC Fights Of All Time. (No, McGregor Is Not All Five).
Dana White Is known for allowing some of the wildest moments in fight promotions history and usually does not get involved in the beef.
The more drama the more views and thus, the more money. Always keep in mind when betting on or even watching sports.
While the outcome directly may not be rigged outright, there is a heavy presence of the top dawgs in sports leagues wanting to ensure their respective league and business makes a profit.
That is why marketing efforts tend to go to the teams the league feels has the best chance at winning or in the case of UFC, the fighter more likely to remain standing.
A good promotion, good competition and plenty of drama that creates tension is the perfect storm for a profitable UFC event.
PPV relies on word of mouth and the names appearing in the event. So, it is in the best interest of UFC and other combat showcases to put on their best matchups at every event.
Here’s a look at the top five highest-grossing UFC fights of All-Time:
5. Conor McGregor vs. José Aldo: UFC 194 (2015)
- PPV Buys: 1.4 million
- Revenue: $80 million
McGregor’s rapid ascent in the UFC culminated in this bout against Aldo.
The fight ended in a swift knockout, and the event’s success further solidified McGregor’s status as a global superstar.
These events not only highlight the financial aspects of the UFC but also underscore the impact of compelling rivalries and personalities in driving the sport’s popularity.
4. Brock Lesnar vs. Frank Mir II: UFC 100 (2009)
- PPV Buys: 1.6 million
- Revenue: $82 million
The heavyweight title fight between Lesnar and Mir was a significant draw for the UFC, marking a milestone in the promotion’s history.
Lesnar’s dominant performance and the event’s high-profile nature contributed to its financial success.
While the fight was not between peak performers or the biggest rivals in UFC at the time, the name Brock Lesnar spoke for itself.
Sometimes, fight promotions don’t have to necessarily be between the best fighters at the time.
Some of the best fights happen between contenders and outside competitors looking to make a name for themselves.
3. Conor McGregor vs. Nate Diaz II: UFC 202 (2016)
- PPV Buys: 1.65 million
- Revenue: $90 million
The rematch between McGregor and Diaz was a highly anticipated event, with both fighters bringing intense energy to the octagon.
The bout delivered a thrilling contest that captivated fans and generated substantial revenue.
While Nate Diaz has had a hard time defeating the biggest names in the octagon, his heart and grit has been the reason he and his brother have become household names.
Diaz would fight anyone, anywhere, anytime and anyplace.
He just prefers to get paid for his fists to fly. Wouldn’t we all!
2. McGregor vs. Poirier III: UFC 264 (2021)
- PPV Buys: 1.8 million
- Revenue: $120 million
The trilogy bout between McGregor and Poirier drew significant attention.
The fight ended abruptly due to McGregor’s injury, but it still generated impressive revenue, underscoring McGregor’s drawing power.
While this is likely the fight that led to the retirement of the Irish Superstar, the fact that he was able to get back into the octagon after what Khabib did to him, took bravery.
This fight was not just a showcase of two top talents in the lightweight belt class, it was the end of an era.
An era that will go down as the most memorable in UFC history. The era that took the company to the moon.
1. McGregor vs. Khabib: UFC 229 (2018)
- PPV Buys: 2.4 million
- Revenue: $180 million
The highly anticipated showdown between McGregor and Nurmagomedov became the most lucrative event in UFC history.
The intense rivalry and post-fight brawl added to its notoriety, making it a landmark event in mixed martial arts.
The whispers of Khabib still ring in the ears of McGregor to this day…
Next Reads
- How UFC Promotion Drives Revenue
- Which Adds More Value to TKO Holdings: UFC or WWE?
- Inside the Fight for UFC Contracts
- The Financial Evolution of WWE’s Royal Rumble
- Will a Non-McGregor UFC Fighter Ever Earn $10 Million in a Single Fight?
Credits
Written by: Aidan Anderson
Research and Analysis: Apostle Sports Media LLC
Sources: Spotrac, GIVEMESPORT, Wikipedia contributors, MMA Hive, APSM Proprietary Analysis.
Featured Image: Public Domain / Wiki Commons
Disclaimer: This article contains general financial information for educational purposes and does not constitute as professional advice.
