The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is home to global superstars, but only a select few have successfully transformed their fighting fame into immense, lasting wealth. While fight purses provide a foundation, the true financial empires of these elite athletes are built outside the cage through savvy business ventures, lucrative brand partnerships, and strategic investments. As of 2025, a handful of fighters have amassed fortunes worth tens of millions, setting a new benchmark for success in mixed martial arts.
From Octagon Glory to Business Empire
The journey from fighter to multimillionaire requires more than just championship belts. It demands business acumen, personal branding, and the ability to captivate a global audience long after the final bell. This list, compiled using the latest figures from authoritative sources like Celebrity Net Worth and Forbes, reveals the top ten wealthiest UFC fighters and the diverse paths they took to secure their financial futures.
The Top 10 UFC Financial Champions
1. Conor McGregor - £170 million+
Topping the list is the irrepressible Conor McGregor. His financial dominance stems far beyond his record-breaking fight purses. The monumental sale of his Proper No. Twelve Irish whiskey brand formed the cornerstone of his wealth. Combined with his lucrative UFC bouts, his McGregor Fast training program, and a constant stream of high-profile brand endorsements, McGregor's empire grows annually. His unmatched star power ensures that every public appearance and new project generates significant revenue.
2. Khabib Nurmagomedov - £80 million
The retired, undefeated legend Khabib Nurmagomedov has seamlessly transitioned from champion to entrepreneur. His earnings from massive pay-per-view events now fuel his post-fighting career. He founded the fight promotion Eagle FC and actively invests in gyms and technology startups. His reputation for integrity and discipline has fostered immense trust, allowing his business ventures to thrive. He also commands high fees for global speaking engagements and public appearances.
3. Georges St-Pierre - £60 million
Georges St-Pierre (GSP) remains a paragon of professionalism and one of the most respected figures in UFC history. His wealth was built through legendary title fights, roles in major Hollywood films, and enduring brand partnerships. In retirement, he maintains a strong income through fitness initiatives, exclusive interviews, and participation in international sports events. His disciplined image continues to attract long-term, high-value deals.
4. Brock Lesnar - £55 million
Brock Lesnar's unique crossover appeal between the UFC and WWE created a financial powerhouse. His brief but explosive UFC career commanded enormous purses, while his superstar status in professional wrestling guarantees continuous, high-level income. His formidable presence and persona make him a perennial draw, ensuring his earnings remain substantial regardless of his fighting activity.
5. Anderson Silva - £45 million
"The Spider," Anderson Silva, leveraged his long reign as middleweight king into lasting prosperity. After his UFC career, he smartly capitalized on his legendary status by taking part in high-paying boxing exhibitions. His iconic fighting style and global fanbase have also opened doors to television roles and media opportunities, keeping him both relevant and financially secure.
6. Ronda Rousey - £40 million
As the trailblazer for women's MMA, Ronda Rousey's impact is immeasurable. Her wealth originates from her dominant UFC run, a successful transition to WWE where she became a headline star, and roles in blockbuster films like the Fast & Furious franchise. Additional revenue streams include book sales, brand deals, and paid speaking engagements on her pioneering journey.
7. Tito Ortiz - £18 million
A pioneer of the sport's early boom, Tito Ortiz was among the first UFC fighters to achieve mainstream recognition. He parlayed that early success into fight promotion, various business deals, and a sustained public profile. His ability to remain in the spotlight for decades has provided a steady and impressive income stream.
8. Chuck Liddell - £17 million
The iconic Chuck "The Iceman" Liddell, famous for his knockout power in the early 2000s, continues to earn from his legacy. His income now flows from television cameos, paid appearances at UFC events and fan conventions, motivational speaking tours, and selective brand collaborations that leverage his enduring popularity.
9. Jon Jones - £15 million
Widely considered the most talented fighter ever, Jon Jones has earned millions from championship fights and sponsorships. His highly anticipated move to the heavyweight division led to even larger financial payouts. Despite controversies, his fights consistently draw massive pay-per-view numbers, ensuring his position as one of the highest-paid active fighters.
10. Nate Diaz - £12 million
Nate Diaz cultivated a fiercely loyal fanbase with his authentic, never-back-down attitude. His wealth comes from big-money fights, his successful merchandise line, and his own fight promotion company, Real Fight Inc.. Ventures into professional boxing, a clothing brand, and public appearances further solidify his financial standing while allowing him to promote the next generation of fighters.
The Blueprint for UFC Financial Success
The stories of these ten fighters reveal a clear pattern: long-term wealth in the UFC is built outside the octagon. While athletic excellence provides the initial platform, it is entrepreneurship, brand building, and capitalizing on one's unique persona that create lasting fortunes. They have transformed their fighting spirit into business savvy, ensuring their financial legacies will endure far longer than their athletic primes. For aspiring fighters, this list serves as a masterclass in building a brand that transcends the sport itself.
