“At the end of the day, it’s not about how good you fight or how many talents you have. It’s a [expletive] popularity contest. So I need to go out there and become the prom king, basically… That’s why I bring up the superfights – if this is such a big deal to the world and the company – a superfight – shoot, give me $2 million. Let me break that number. I’m going on my eighth title defense, and there are fighters who haven’t had the accolades in their mixed martial arts career – seven title defenses or whatnot. I’m not bitching or complaining [about what I get paid], I’m just keeping it real [about] that seven-figure number. I’m just keeping it focused and trying to break that number.”
-Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson talks to MMAJunkie.com about what the state of the UFC and what he needs to do in order to get the type of money he feels he deserves.
Penick’s Analysis: The sad part is how accurate his take is. No matter what he’s done in the cage to date, he’s not gotten the type of attention from fans that brings in further money to the UFC to in turn bring further money into his pocket. It’s a cycle that has him as one of the longest reigning champions and likely one of the lowest paid as well. The UFC absolutely could pay him more, and he’d deserve it, but they’re under no obligation to do so when his fights don’t draw the type of attention that the big money men (and women) have brought. Unless and until that changes, that’s going to continue being Johnson’s reality.
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