The UFC is no stranger to showcasing elite athletes, but in 2024, it wasn’t just the fights that had fans talking—it was the jaw-dropping paydays.

As the sport continues to dominate the global stage, the numbers behind the octagon have soared, making stars like Alex Pereira, Sean O’Malley, Jon Jones, Ilia Topuria, and Max Holloway some of the highest-paid fighters in UFC history.

Here’s a closer look at the highest paid UFC fighters of 2024 and how they cashed in on their talent and charisma.

1. Alex Pereira: Hands of Stone, Wallet of Gold

Alex Pereira’s year was nothing short of legendary. Known as the “man with the hands of stone,” the Brazilian powerhouse redefined dominance in the Light Heavyweight division in 2024. But it wasn’t just his fists that did the talking—his earnings spoke volumes.

At UFC 300, Pereira defended his title against Jamahal Hill, taking home a massive $2.94 million, thanks to a $1.2 million base salary, a $1.6 million PPV cut, and bonuses.

Fast forward to UFC 303, and Pereira stepped in on short notice to save the event against Jiri Prochazka. That decision not only earned him his highest payday of $3.59 million but also cemented his reputation as a fan-favorite and company man.

He closed the year with another title defense at UFC 307, adding $2.99 million to his bank account.

With total earnings reaching a staggering $9.53 million, Pereira’s 2024 was as lucrative as it was legendary.

2. Sean O’Malley: The Sugar Show’s Sweet Paydays

Sean O’Malley kicked off the year in style with a title defense against Marlon Vera, earning $2.31 million at UFC 294. While that was impressive, it was Noche UFC 306 that truly showcased his value.

Held at the visually stunning Sphere in Las Vegas, O’Malley lost his belt to Merab Dvalishvili but walked away with his highest payday yet—a whopping $4.14 million, including a $3 million base salary and a $1.1 million PPV payout.

Even in defeat, O’Malley proved why he remains one of the most marketable fighters on the roster, closing 2024 with total earnings of $6.45 million.

3. Jon Jones: The GOAT’s One-and-Done Payday

Jon “Bones” Jones made headlines with a single fight in 2024—and what a fight it was. Facing Stipe Miocic in his first heavyweight title defense at UFC 295, Jones delivered a highlight-reel spinning back kick to secure the win.

His performance was matched by his paycheck, which totaled an eye-watering $6.29 million, including a $5 million base salary and PPV bonuses.

While fans were left wanting more, Jones reminded everyone that even a one-fight year can make waves—both in the octagon and at the bank.

4. Ilia Topuria: From Prospect to Pay-Per-View Star

Ilia Topuria’s meteoric rise in 2024 turned heads, and so did his earnings. After defeating Alexander Volkanovski to claim the featherweight title at UFC 298, the Spaniard pocketed $482,000—modest compared to what came next.

At UFC 308, Topuria defended his title against Max Holloway, earning a career-best $3.99 million. With a $1.5 million base salary, an equal win bonus, and PPV payouts, Topuria’s year-end total hit $4.47 million, proving he’s not just a rising star but a legitimate top earner.

5. Max Holloway: Blessed with Big Paychecks

Max Holloway’s 2024 was packed with memorable moments, including a last-second knockout of Justin Gaethje at UFC 300 for the BMF title. That stunning finish earned him $2.42 million, with performance bonuses alone contributing a hefty $600,000.

Later in the year, Holloway challenged Topuria at UFC 308, walking away with another $2.43 million, bringing his total for the year to $4.85 million. Even in a stacked field, “Blessed” lived up to his name, delivering unforgettable fights and earning paychecks to match.

As UFC paydays continue to rise, the sport is proving that it’s not just about the action in the cage—it’s about the spectacle, the storylines, and the stars. Alex Pereira’s historic year, Sean O’Malley’s marketability, Jon Jones’ legendary status, and the rise of Ilia Topuria and Max Holloway show that the UFC is in a golden era, both athletically and financially.

With 2024 setting the bar this high, one can only imagine what 2025 will bring. Will we see even bigger paydays, or is this the peak of the UFC’s financial evolution? Either way, fans are sure to be along for the ride.