Joe Pyfer supports Sean Strickland in UFC pay dispute

UFC middleweight contender Joe Pyfer has expressed support for champion Sean Strickland regarding a dispute over fighter compensation. Strickland has voiced dissatisfaction with his current pay structure, particularly in comparison to large guaranteed sums reportedly given to other athletes in combat sports.

Strickland is currently facing a rematch against Nassourdine Imavov. Pyfer noted that while the UFC is within its contractual rights, he believes fighters at the top level deserve higher compensation. Pyfer compared the earnings of top-ranked MMA fighters to those in other major sports, suggesting that the current pay scale does not reflect the physical toll and level of performance required.

The UFC has maintained that Strickland is bound by a new contract signed prior to his victory over Khamzat Chimaev, which limits his ability to renegotiate terms for the upcoming title defense.