UFC Abu Dhabi: How much are Cory Sandhagen, Umar Nurmagomedov, and others making? Estimated payouts reported
The UFC Abu Dhabi card features the return of Cory Sandhagen and Umar Nurmagomedov in a highly anticipated bout. But what will both men and others slated for the event earn for their efforts this Saturday? As is often the case, there are no exact disclosed payouts ahead of the bout.
Fortunately, there are reported estimates based on their purses from previous outings. Sandhagen and Nurmagomedov will headline the card in what will likely act as a bantamweight title eliminator. The bout was previously scheduled for Aug. 5, 2023, but Nurmagomedov withdrew, citing a shoulder injury.
Now, the two men will lock horns on Aug. 3. So, what will they earn? InsideSport reported that 'The Sandman' earned $220,000 for beating Marlon Vera, while Total Pro Sports, via MSN, reported that he earned $320,000. Based on these estimates, Sandhagen is likely to earn between $100,000 and $250,000 on Saturday.
Meanwhile, figures for Nurmagomedov are more difficult to establish. The unbeaten Dagestani has no disclosed payouts besides the $50,000 he reportedly (via NY Fights) pocketed for beating Raoni Barcelos on Jan. 14, 2023. However, given the high-profile nature of his bout, he will likely earn around $100,000.
Elsewhere, Sharabudtin Magomedov's middleweight bout with Michał Oleksiejczuk will serve as the UFC Abu Dhabi co-main event. On the previously mentioned Total Pro Sports report, 'Shara Bullet' is said to have pocketed $80,000 for his recent win over Antonio Trocoli, so he will likely earn a similar figure.
Alternatively, Oleksiejczuk is said, by the same report, to have a base salary of $130,000, though this estimated figure is likely lower. Lastly, for Deiveson Figueiredo and Marlon Vera, their known earnings were from title fights, which they will not be partaking in this Saturday.
However, given their renown, a figure in the ballpark of $100,000 should be expected.
UFC Abu Dhabi is a stacked card
The UFC Abu Dhabi card is well-equipped for entertainment. Cory Sandhagen and Umar Nurmagomedov served as the headliners in a blockbuster bantamweight encounter with serious title implications for the winner. 'The Young Eagle' will also look to preserve his undefeated 17-0 record.
Elsewhere, another unbeaten Dagestani in Sharabudtin Magomedov faces heavy-handed middleweight Michał Oleksiejczuk in a bout expected to produce fireworks on the feet. They are joined by former flyweight king Deiveson Figueiredo, who takes on ex-bantamweight title challenger Marlon Vera.
Former interim lightweight champion Tony Ferguson will also feature on UFC Abu Dhabi, as he looks to revive an ailing career by facing welterweight veteran Michael Chiesa. More is featured on the card, so fans ought to tune in on Saturday for must-see action.