CM Punk was the third-highest paid star to compete at UFC 203.
The former professional wrestler was paid $500,000 on his UFC debut, compared to his opponent Mickey Gall who has paid a basic wage of $15,000. Gall was given an additional $15,000 for the win.
Punk was the third-highest paid fighter on the card, after Alistair Overeem and UFC Champion Stipe Miocic who fought for the heavyweight title. Both fighters earned $800,000 and $600,000 respectively.
.@CMPunk is here! 👊 #UFC203 https://t.co/JejsbZ7ZlR
— BT Sport UFC (@btsportufc) September 11, 2016
While Punk's standing undoubtedly helped to the PPV buy-rate, his basic wage caused annoyance with many UFC stars, including former champions Rafael dos Anjos.
Nothing against CM Punk make half million for his mma debut.But I think champs should been make that too,people who dedicated a entire life.
— Rafael dos Anjos (@RdosAnjosMMA) September 12, 2016
wwe guy 500k Investment paid every1 but fighters 1 time. 500k could build entire fw division. Invest n wmma not the circus payday fighters
— Cris Cyborg (@criscyborg) September 12, 2016
