Former UFC light heavyweight champion Quinton “Rampage” Jackson called for the promotion to offer far bigger financial rewards for fighters who deliver exciting performances.
Jackson shared his opinion on a recent episode of the Jaxxon podcast, joining TJ Dillashaw and Bobby Green to discuss the fallout from UFC 321.
“Imagine how fights would change if the bonus was one million dollars,” Jackson said. “Fighters would push harder. They wouldn’t just aim to win—they would aim to entertain and give fans unforgettable shows.”
He added, “It’s about respecting the craft and the risks fighters take. If UFC wants to retain the best talent and elevate competition, raising bonuses is the way to do it.”
Jackson emphasized that the sport’s business side must match fighters’ realities. “They deserve the big money,” he said. “These bonuses can change lives—for the fighters and their families. UFC must step up.”
UFC 321 and the Bonus Debate
Many fans found UFC 321 underwhelming, even before the main event between Tom Aspinall and Ciryl Gane ended disappointingly.
Fans often equate excitement with striking-heavy fights. UFC 321 relied heavily on grappling and takedowns, which left some viewers dissatisfied.
Still, the card set a UFC record for most successful takedowns in a single event. The Jailton Almeida vs. Alexander Volkov bout highlighted this trend and reflected fans’ mixed reactions.
Can Bonuses Really Increase?
Jackson suggested UFC might raise bonuses, though he noted a jump from $50,000 to $100,000 seemed more likely than a million-dollar payout.
During his UFC career, Jackson earned multiple performance bonuses, giving him firsthand insight into the impact of extra pay.
He concluded that higher bonuses could push fighters to deliver more thrilling performances while securing financial stability for themselves and their families.
