UFC welterweight: ‘Fighting has never paid enough’

Fighter pay is always an interesting topic that brings debate from all angles.

Recently, undefeated UFC welterweight Alberto Mina commented on his UFC pay and interestingly looks at his compensation with the UFC in a way that you typically don’t hear from many fighters.

“Fighting for me is above and beyond just money,” Mina told MMAjunkie. “I’ve been a trainer since the start of my career. Of course, if I had to pay my bills and support my family from fighting alone, I’d need to fight three times a year. In my case, fighting has never paid enough to allow me to quit my other job. As a trainer, I also find gratification. Also, I’ve always tried to always fight uninjured and in good physical condition.

“I think if I was a young 22-year-old, I would be fighting every four months. But I’m honest with myself. I don’t expect the UFC will be my primary source of income until I go on a three- or four-fight winning streak, at least, at which time I could sign a better contract. But for now, after academy, manager and medical costs, there’s not much left. It’s not easy. So I’m very happy with my career decisions. As it is, I’ve battled with some injuries. So, at age 34, it falls to me to do my best within my constraints.”

Alberto Mina is set to take on Mike Pyle at UFC Fight Night 90 on July 7 in Las Vegas, Nevada where Rafael dos Anjos will look to defend his lightweight title against contender Eddie Alvarez in the main event.