UFC 301: Jose Aldo’s Final Fight Payout

As UFC 301 prepares to light up the Farmasi Arena in Rio de Janeiro, anticipation buzzes around Jose Aldo’s last contractual fight. With a card that promises to enthrall and ignite the Brazilian crowd, the event marks a significant chapter in UFC’s history in Rio, being the 12th event since January 2023.

Main Event Thrills: Pantoja vs. Erceg

The UFC 301 card features a flyweight title defence that could alter the course of the division. Alexandre Pantoja, the reigning champion, is ready to fend off challenger Steve Erceg in what promises to be a clash of titans. Pantoja, known as “The Cannibal,” seeks his second title defence and faces Erceg, an Australian powerhouse poised to make history in the 125-pound class.

Co-Main Event Spotlight: Aldo’s High-Stakes Return

In the co-main spectacle, Jose Aldo steps back into the octagon against a formidable opponent. This bout is not just another fight; it’s Aldo’s swansong under the UFC banner, where he’s poised to bag a substantial purse of $550,000. “Yes, this is the last fight on my contract,” Aldo revealed to CBS. His return is highly anticipated, given his absence since a unanimous decision win over a top bantamweight contender at the Rio Arena.

Payout Projections at UFC 301

Amid the electric atmosphere, the financial stakes are equally high. Recent insights from NY Fights highlight that while Pantoja is expected to pocket over $750,000, Erceg could hit a career-high with a $200,000 payout. Alongside these fighters, former light heavyweight contender Anthony Smith is anticipated to earn around $250,000.

It’s important to note that these figures exclude potential winnings or performance bonuses, which are traditionally based on the fighters’ previous earnings and bout outcomes.

Aldo’s Lucrative Farewell

Jose Aldo’s expected earnings of $550,000 underscore his prominent role in this event. As he concludes his UFC journey, the stakes are beyond financial; it’s about closing his chapter on a high. “When I started talking to Sean and Dana in January, we discussed signing a new deal. However, I opted against it because I want to demonstrate my current capabilities and performance,” Aldo shared, hinting at his readiness to prove his enduring prowess in the mixed martial arts world.

With a lineup as stellar as UFC 301’s and a venue brimming with passionate fans, the event is set to be a memorable one. As fighters like Aldo make pivotal career decisions, the impact resonates far beyond the confines of the octagon, marking an end of an era and the possible beginning of new legends.