The UFC 294 event faced significant challenges as the highly anticipated Islam Makhachev vs. Charles Oliveira fight was canceled due to Oliveira’s eyebrow injury. Additionally, Paulo Costa withdrew due to arm surgery. Now, Khamzat Chimaev steps in to face former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman in the co-main event. Remarkably, Usman will receive double the purse compared to Chimaev. Let’s explore the specifics.
UFC 294: Kamaru Usman’s earnings will be two times higher than Khamzat Chimaev’s purse
As per Sportspayouts, Kamaru Usman is guaranteed $500,000 with an additional $20,000 from sponsorships, while Khamzat Chimaev’s guaranteed pay is $250,000, with an extra $15,000 from sponsorships.
Both fighters have the opportunity to earn more through bonuses: $50,000 each for Fight of the Night (for two fighters) and $50,000 each for Performance of the Night (for six fighters).
Kamaru Usman captured the UFC welterweight title in 2019 at UFC 235 by defeating Tyron Woodley. He successfully defended the title five times before experiencing a defeat to Leon Edwards at UFC 278 in 2022.
Usman had a rematch with Edwards at UFC 286 in March but faced another loss, bringing his record to 20 wins, 3 losses, and no draws.
In contrast, Khamzat Chimaev is an emerging talent in the sport, boasting an undefeated professional MMA record of 12-0.
His most recent fight took place in September 2022 at UFC 279, where he secured a victory over Kevin Holland via submission. Notably, Chimaev has ended six of his seven fights with stoppages.
Because of Paulo Costa’s injury, Khamzat Chimaev will compete against former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman in a three-round bout on October 21. This marks Usman’s debut in the middleweight division, and the winner is anticipated to challenge Sean Strickland for the title.
Stories On UFC 294 You Must Read:
- UFC 294: Will Two Titles Be On the Line for Islam Makhachev vs Alexander Volkanovski 2?
- UFC 294- Islam Makhachev vs Alexander Volkanovski- Preview, Prediction, Betting Odds and More
Don’t miss UFC 294 showcasing the showdown between Kamaru Usman and Khamzat Chimaev, airing live from Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Arena on Saturday, October 21, 2023.
