In the words of Teddy KGB, “Pay that man his money.”
Right now, that man is Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) lightweight contender Justin Gaethje. He’s been wrapped up in a game of he said, she said as to whether or not he was offered more money following UFC’s $7.7 billion deal with Paramount+. Gaethje will help ring in UFC’s official debut on Paramount+ this weekend at UFC 324 from Las Vegas Nevada, as “Highlight” meets Paddy Pimblett in the main event for the interim UFC lightweight title.
Earlier this week, Gaethje was asked about fighter pay under UFC’s new deal with Paramount+ and revealed that he isn’t earning one dollar more than before. It surprised some fight fans, especially because former UFC champion and current commentator, Daniel Cormier, claimed that fighters are already “making more money” under the new regime.
UFC CEO Dana White countered Gaethje’s comments this week as well, revealing that UFC did in fact offer the veteran more money. The only problem is that Gaethje didn’t respond. It seems odd that anyone would go off grid when being offered more money, but at this point it’s anyone’s guess as to what actually happened.
Gaethje and Cormier, who are friends outside of UFC events and often golf with one another, came together for an interview this week and the subject was brought up. “Highlight” held nothing back as he scolded Cormier for ”lying” about something he doesn’t know.
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“You’re out here saying everybody’s getting paid more and you’re f—king lying,” Gaethje told Cormier. “Why would you say that? Why would you talk out of your ass when you have no idea what’s happening?”
“I actually know,” responded Cormier.
“Oh, you know that I’m getting paid more than I would’ve if this deal didn’t get done?” mocked Gaethje.
“I never said everybody,” said Cormier.
“You said everybody,” Gaethje fired back. “You said every single guy will be getting paid more.”
“Are you kidding me? You’re going to do this?” asked Cormier.
“You’re going to f—king throw us under the bus. Make us look stupid,” said Gaethje.
