The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is home to global superstars, but only a select few have transformed their fighting fame into colossal financial empires. While fight purses provide a foundation, the true wealth for these elite athletes is built outside the cage through savvy business deals, brand endorsements, and entrepreneurial ventures. As we move into 2025, let's explore the ten richest UFC fighters who have mastered the art of wealth creation.
The Kings of the UFC Fortune
Topping the list is the irrepressible Conor McGregor with a net worth exceeding £170 million. The Irishman's financial dominance stems far beyond his historic fight purses. His landmark sale of the Proper No. Twelve whiskey brand was a game-changer, contributing massively to his wealth. McGregor continues to expand his empire through his fitness program, McGregor FAST, and lucrative brand partnerships. His magnetic fame ensures that every public appearance, advertisement, and new project generates significant income, keeping him at the pinnacle of combat sports wealth.
In second place is the retired, undefeated legend Khabib Nurmagomedov, valued at £80 million. 'The Eagle' capitalized on massive pay-per-view events during his career. Post-retirement, he has successfully transitioned into coaching, entrepreneurship, and investing. He founded the Eagle FC promotion and has strategic investments in gyms and technology startups. His reputation for integrity and discipline has made him a trusted figure, accelerating the growth of his business ventures globally.
Legends and Pioneers Building Lasting Wealth
The legendary Georges St-Pierre follows with £60 million. GSP accumulated wealth through championship fights, movie roles, and sustained brand work. Even in retirement, he remains a highly respected figure, engaging in fitness programs, media appearances, and sports commentary. His disciplined image continues to attract long-term endorsement deals, securing his financial legacy.
Brock Lesnar's unique crossover appeal has netted him £55 million. His stints in both UFC and WWE resulted in enormous payouts. His formidable presence and star power make him a major draw, with WWE engagements significantly boosting his ongoing income. Despite a limited UFC resume, his fame across sports entertainment guarantees high annual earnings.
The iconic Anderson Silva holds a fortune of £45 million. 'The Spider' earned from a long, dominant UFC career and has smartly extended his earning window through high-profile boxing matches and television roles. His graceful fighting style and global fanbase continue to open doors in media and entertainment, maintaining his status as a highly bankable personality.
Trailblazers and Fan Favorites
Pioneer Ronda Rousey is worth £40 million. As the first major female star in the UFC, she revolutionized women's MMA. Her wealth was built through UFC success, a prominent WWE career, and roles in major films like the Fast & Furious franchise. She further adds to her income through book deals, brand endorsements, and public speaking, cementing her influence in women's sports.
UFC Hall of Famer Tito Ortiz has accumulated £18 million. An early mainstream star for the promotion, Ortiz leveraged his fight fame into successful fight promotions and various business deals. His longevity in the public eye, even after active competition, provides him with a steady stream of income.
The fearsome Chuck Liddell boasts £17 million. A defining star of the UFC's boom in the early 2000s, 'The Iceman' now earns from television appearances, speaking engagements, and brand associations. His knockout legacy and recognizable persona keep him in demand at fan events and UFC functions.
Despite controversies, Jon Jones's unparalleled talent has earned him £15 million. His championship fights and sponsorships form the core of his wealth, with his recent move to the heavyweight division commanding even larger purses. When 'Bones' fights, pay-per-view sales skyrocket, ensuring his earnings outpace most active champions.
Finally, the popular Nate Diaz rounds out the list with £12 million. Diaz cultivated a fiercely loyal fanbase through his authentic, gritty style. His income flows from blockbuster fights, his successful merchandise line, and his own fight promotion company, Real Fight Inc. His ventures into boxing and public appearances further solidify his financial standing.
This list, compiled using recent data from Celebrity Net Worth and Forbes, reveals a clear blueprint: in modern combat sports, lasting wealth is not just won inside the octagon. It is built through brand building, smart investments, and capitalizing on a fighter's unique persona to create diverse income streams that endure long after their final fight.
