Despite losing to Dricus du Plessis in a thrilling UFC 305 main event, Israel Adesanya reportedly earned more than the reigning champion.
The bout, which took place at the RAC Arena in Perth, Australia, saw Du Plessis successfully defend his UFC Middleweight Championship for the first time, forcing Adesanya to tap out in the fourth round.
The fight, which was the first-ever UFC title clash between two African fighters, held significant historical importance and generated substantial financial rewards for both competitors.
According to reports from The Sportster, Adesanya, a former two-time middleweight champion, was guaranteed $750,000 for the fight, while Du Plessis got $500,000.
With additional earnings from the pay-per-view, both fighters are expected to clear seven figures, though Adesanya’s share of the revenue is projected to be higher due to his status and past achievements in the sport.
In the lead-up to the fight, Du Plessis sparked controversy by claiming to be the “first real African UFC champion,” a comment aimed at previous African titleholders like Adesanya, Kamaru Usman, and Francis Ngannou, who no longer reside on the continent. Adesanya took exception to this remark, viewing it as an affront to his heritage.
However, after securing the win via rear naked choke, Du Plessis extended an olive branch, apologising and referring to Adesanya as a legend while clarifying that he did not intend to disrespect his opponent’s African roots.
The UFC 305 card also saw notable payouts for other fighters. In the co-main event, Kai Kara-France earned a $50,000 bonus on top of his $300,000 base pay for his first-round knockout of Steve Erceg, who pocketed $75,000.
Dan Hooker and Mateusz Gamrot, who engaged in an exciting lightweight contest, each took home $50,000 bonuses on top of their respective $350,000 and $110,000 base pay cheques.
