Demetrious Johnson Blasts UFC as 'Hypocritical', Claims Promotion Doesn't Operate Like a Real Sport

Pulse Sports Team 15:47 - 15 October 2026

The UFC has built its global empire on the premise of being the premier destination for the world's elite mixed martial artists. However, MMA legend Demetrious Johnson has pushed back against that narrative, openly arguing that the promotion does not operate like a legitimate sport.

One of the most dominant champions in UFC history launched a scathing critique of his former employer's business model. Johnson's comments were sparked by several recent developments, notably the UFC parting ways with Michael "Venom" Page and Sean Strickland's candid remarks regarding fighter pay.

"We've repeatedly heard Dana White say he only wants the best talent on the roster, only to turn around and claim they're not exciting enough," Johnson said on his YouTube channel. "In a real sport, when the best compete against the best and the match isn't a barnburner, you don't cut them—because it's a sport. When you win, you keep your spot. Winning should guarantee your place. In the UFC, though, you can keep winning and still get released if you don't generate enough buzz, or they might even look at scrapping your entire division."

Johnson also questioned why the promotion retains fighters on extended losing skids while letting winning fighters like Page walk away. The British standout recently signed with Misfits Boxing, where he stated he is earning twice as much as he did in the UFC.

"They are hypocrites," Johnson added. "They say one thing and do the exact opposite. I just want the UFC to be upfront and honest about the product they are selling. Don't claim you have the greatest athletes in the world when you let them walk. I'd respect it much more if the UFC simply said, 'We couldn't afford him. Good for Michael 'Venom' Page getting paid more over at Misfits Boxing.'"

According to Johnson, the promotion ultimately prioritizes and rewards entertaining personalities over pure meritocracy, disregarding fundamental competitive sporting principles.

"In pure sports, the person who wins the most should earn the most and have a guaranteed spot," Johnson concluded. "Michael Page is making more in Misfits than he did in the UFC. I'd love to see the exact numbers. When it comes to the athletic side of MMA versus the UFC being entertainment—entertainment means they handpick who draws eyes, who puts butts in seats, and what fits their narrative for a compelling matchup. That is fundamentally different from what sport is all about."