UFC Contender’s Income Reduced by More Than Half Due to Foreign Taxes, Raises Concerns for Other Fighters
In a recent development within the world of UFC, it seems that fighters are becoming increasingly concerned about the impact of foreign taxes on their income. Kevin Holland, a highly regarded welterweight contender, recently revealed that he would have fought Jack Della Maddalena in Australia if the UFC had promised to cover the taxes on his generated income. This revelation comes after fellow UFC fighter John Makdeesi shared details about his payment for competing at UFC 293, shedding light on the significant deductions and Australian taxes that impacted his earnings.
Makdeesi competed against Jamie Mullarkey in a 155-pound contest at UFC 293 but unfortunately lost the fight via unanimous decision. Makdeesi had an initial prize money of $58,000 for showing up, but his take-home earnings were reduced to a mere $28,461 due to deductions and Australian taxes. The deductions included $3,171 for his medical exam and airfares, while the Australian Federal Tax took away an additional $26,100. MMA journalist Aaron Bronsteter shared a remittance slip on social media, highlighting the grave impact of these taxes on Makdeesi’s income.
Bronsteter’s post prompted Kevin Holland to further voice his concerns about facing Jack Della Maddalena in Australia. The issue of foreign taxes has become a focal point, with Holland and Della Maddalena set to fight in the co-main event of Noche UFC this weekend. Noche UFC, a special event commemorating Mexican Independence Day, will take place at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The main event will feature a title rematch between Alexa Grasso and Valentina Shevchenko.
When asked about his thoughts on the 170-pound title picture and his lack of focus on a championship opportunity, Holland made it clear that his priority was getting paid while fighting top-notch opponents rather than chasing after a belt. He emphasized his satisfaction with his current payment structure and his focus on staying active in the UFC. Holland’s recent wins over Michael Chiesa and Santiago Pinzinibbio have bolstered his confidence, and he is eager to extend his unbeaten streak against Della Maddalena at Noche UFC.
The issue of foreign taxes is not only causing concerns for individual fighters like Kevin Holland and John Makdeesi but also raises broader questions about the financial implications for UFC contenders who compete in foreign countries. This recent revelation regarding the drastic reduction in Makdeesi’s income serves as a stark reminder of the challenges fighters face when it comes to international taxation.
As the UFC continues to expand its global reach and schedule fights in various countries, it may need to address these taxation issues to ensure its fighters are fairly compensated for their efforts. Although fighters like Holland prioritize staying active and getting paid over pursuing a title, their financial well-being should not suffer due to foreign taxes.
Overall, the economic impact of foreign taxes on UFC fighters’ incomes has become an increasingly pressing concern. The unsettling reality of John Makdeesi’s income being reduced by more than half due to deductions and Australian taxes serves as a wake-up call for the UFC and fighters alike. Balancing the financial aspects of competing in different countries while ensuring fair compensation for fighters will undoubtedly be an ongoing challenge that the UFC must address in the future.
