Highlights
- UFC 301 in Rio promises explosive fights with Pantoja defending, Aldo returning, and high-earning fighters on the card.
- Pantoja and Erceg expected to rake in big bucks, with Pantoja estimated to exceed $750,000 in earnings.
- Jose Aldo making a comeback with an estimated $550,000 payout, marking the end of his UFC contract with a victory.
UFC 301 event is set to electrify fans at the Farmasi Arena in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. With an exciting lineup of fights, this marks the promotion’s 12th visit to Rio since UFC 283 in January 2023.
In the main event, UFC flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja is prepared to defend his title against challenger Steve Erceg. Pantoja, seeking his second title defense, faces Erceg, who aims to become the first Australian fighter to compete for the 125-pound championship. In the co-main event Jose Aldo returns to face a top contender.
Conor McGregor Reacts To Jose Aldo’s Return to UFC 301
Conor McGregor welcomes the surprise return of Jose Aldo after he announced his retirement nearly two years ago.
UFC 301 Purse Estimates
Jose Aldo Is On The Last Fight Of His Contract
Recent reports from NY Fights indicate that both Pantoja and Erceg are poised to be the highest earners on the fight card. Pantoja, dubbed “The Cannibal,” is anticipated to exceed $750,000, while Erceg is reportedly set to achieve a career-high payday of $200,000.
Notable fighters on the UFC 301 card include Jose Aldo, expected to earn $550,000, and former light heavyweight title challenger Anthony Smith, potentially pocketing $250,000.
However, these reported payouts exclude winnings or performance bonuses and are based on previously disclosed earnings.
Pantoja enters UFC 301 on a five-fight win streak, including a dominant victory over Brandon Royval at UFC 296, securing the flyweight championship at UFC 290. Erceg, riding an 11-fight win streak, aims to continue his success following a second-round knockout win over Matt Schnell.
Jose Aldo Estimated To Earn $550,000 In His Return
The King Of Rio Fought Out Of His Contract On A High
Jose Aldo, marking his return to MMA since August 2022, with expectations of substantial UFC bonuses. It’s estimated that Aldo will earn $550,000 in UFC payouts for his bout in Rio this weekend. Aldo’s departure from his UFC contract at UFC 301 is viewed as an optimal scenario for the Hall of Famer. “Yes, this is the last fight on my contract,” Aldo stated to CBS.
“When I started talking to Sean and Dana in January, we discussed signing a new deal. However, I opted against it because I want to demonstrate my current capabilities and performance.” Aldo demonstrated his enduring skill by concluding his UFC contract on a high note, securing a unanimous decision victory over the rising bantamweight contender Martinez at Rio Arena in Rio de Janeiro.
