Thread by @martyrmade

While I understand that new fighters are just being given a shot, the dedication required to break into the UFC takes years away other opportunities. In no other major sport would a player do 2-3 years and walk away feeling like it was a mistake, and neither should UFC fighters.

https://twitter.com/MMAjunkie/status/1421681114305925120

By the time they’re done paying coaches, agents & sparring partners, new & non-elite fighters barely have enough left over to get them through until the next fight. If they get injured or a fight is canceled, many end up in a hard spot. This is unacceptable for an elite sport.

I’ve long advocated a legislative solution. Despite the presence of Bellator, the UFC is an effective monopoly like MLB, NFL, NBA & NHL. Congress should grant UFC a monopoly exemption w/strings attached: %-based fighter pay, long-term medical for fight-related injuries, etc.

BTW I reject any hating on Dana White. I was a fan when MMA was banned in 49 states, and the product was a hokey, Indian casino, bloody mess. Now it’s a global sport that attracts top athletes, and we have Dana to thank for that. But it’s time to start acting like a major sport.

Responses to a few replies:
1."Many boxers don't make much" - Boxers are free agents, not bound employees like UFC fighters.
2."Minor league..." - UFC is the big leagues.
3."LEGISLATION?!?" - We already to this w/other sports, granting monopoly exemptions w/strings attached.

Again: UFC fighters are EMPLOYEES. They can't fight anywhere else, and can't use events to promote sponsors. If they get injured pre-fight, they often don't get paid. Medical care is limited to explicit fight-caused injuries. They're company workers, but treated like free agents.

I'm not making a social justice point. I'm talking as a fan. I want young Lebrons & Gronkowskis to consider fighting as a first option. For that to happen, fighters who make it into the #1 MMA organization in the world have to be treated like elite athletes.