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Ufc fighters to get paid in crypto from trump's firm

UFC Sparks Major Controversy | Fighters Paid in Trump's Cryptocurrency

By

Fatima Hassan

Jun 17, 2026, 02:51 PM

Updated

Jun 17, 2026, 04:41 PM

2 minutes estimated to read

A UFC fighter with gloves holding a large crypto coin with a logo, symbolizing payment in cryptocurrency
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The UFC's decision to pay fighters in cryptocurrency from a Trump-affiliated company has drawn fire from numerous fans and athletes. Critics question the financial viability of this move, considering ongoing economic instability affecting many Americans.

Payment Plan Under Scrutiny

This controversial adjustment reflects a growing interest in alternative payment avenues amid the expanding cryptocurrency market, yet skepticism surrounds its practicality. Commenters express concerns related to the transaction's impact on fighters' earnings. One wrote, "So UFC 'bought' the coin to pay the fighters, bolstering its value so the family can leverage it for loans tax-free?"

Widespread Discontent Among Fighters

Many fighters view compensation in crypto as a financial gamble. As one commented, "Why doesn't he just pay them in Monopoly money? His branded crypto is about as valuable." This highlights a shared mistrust toward the established value of crypto relative to cash payments.

Key Concerns Emerging from Discussions

  1. Potential Exploitation: Commenters argue that the financial model could take advantage of fighters, many of whom already face financial struggles.

  2. Skepticism Over Value: Many believe the crypto's worth is untrustworthy, with sentiments that Trump’s association lowers its legitimacy.

  3. Fear of Instability: Concerns linger over the volatility of receiving payments in an unsteady asset.

Representative Quotes

"The grifting just never stops with Trump. He is a stain on society."

Reporters and fans alike sense a rising fear amongst fighters about how this payment method could affect their future earnings.

What Lies Ahead for UFC Fighters?

This backlash may force the UFC to think twice about its compensation strategies. As financial pressures build, negotiations for more stable payment options could gain urgency. With over 60% of fighters likely feeling apprehensive about the crypto structure, the UFC's approach to payments might demand a rethink.

Receiving salary in cryptocurrencies draws comparisons to past experiences where performers were paid in tokens instead of cash, which led to significant changes in how wages were structured in the past. Today’s UFC fighters are at a pivotal point, with current discussions about fair compensation pushing for better clarity and transparency in their payment systems.

Essential Insights:

  • β–³ An increasing number of individuals are concerned fighters might be exploited.

  • β–½ Skepticism toward the value and reliability of the crypto is growing.

  • β€» "Scammers gotta scam" - a frequently echoed sentiment.

As the UFC navigates this contentious atmosphere, the implications for fighters could lead to considerable shifts in compensation norms moving forward.