Artem Vakhitov Rejects UFC Contract Over Pay Dispute
On March 25, 2025, Artem Vakhitov, a two-time GLORY light heavyweight kickboxing champion, officially parted ways with the UFC after a contract dispute stemming from his appearance on Dana White’s Contender Series (DWCS). The Russian fighter, who earned a UFC contract with a first-round TKO victory over Islem Masraf in October 2024, cited the promotion’s rigid pay structure as the primary reason for his decision.
Vakhitov, 33, entered the DWCS with an impressive combat sports pedigree, including a storied rivalry with former UFC middleweight champion Alex Pereira during their GLORY kickboxing days. His dominant performance on the Contender Series had fans eagerly anticipating his transition to the Octagon, with hopes of a potential trilogy fight against Pereira. However, negotiations with the UFC quickly soured when Vakhitov’s team attempted to secure a more lucrative deal than the standard DWCS contract.
According to Vakhitov, the UFC’s protocols for DWCS fighters left no room for negotiation, offering a fixed 20-month, four-fight deal. Despite his accolades and marketability, Vakhitov found the terms financially untenable, stating that he could not justify the loss of earnings the contract would represent. As a father of two daughters, Vakhitov emphasized the importance of maximizing his earning potential during his limited window as a professional fighter.
The UFC’s reliance on DWCS fighters, who operate under uniform pay structures, has drawn criticism from industry insiders. Many argue that the promotion’s approach undervalues athletes with established credentials, such as Vakhitov, who bring significant experience and fan interest to the table.
While Vakhitov expressed disappointment over the failed negotiations, he maintained a respectful tone, leaving the door open for future discussions with the UFC.
This development underscores the ongoing tension between fighters and promotions over pay and contract terms, highlighting the challenges athletes face in balancing financial security with career aspirations.
(Sources: MMA Junkie, Forbes, CBS Sports)
