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News, Blog and GuidesWith Conor McGregor bowing out due to injury, Alex Pereira tops the bill to defend his light heavyweight title against Jiri Prochazka. The Brazilian will take home the biggest payout of his UFC career so far.
Andy HallUpdate: Jun 28th, 2024 14:37 EDT0
Mark J. RebilasUSA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con
Little over half a year since their last appearance together in the octagon, Alex Pereira and Jiri Prochazka come face to face again – this time at T-Mobile Arena in Paradise, Nevada. The Brazilian made short work of their last bout, winning by TKO in Round 2.
CHAMA 🗿@AlexPereiraUFC is locked in at 204lbs[ Live on @ESPNPlus PPV | TOM | 10pmET/7pmPT | #UFC303 ] pic.twitter.com/TCPImZQPZi
— UFC (@ufc) June 28, 2024
Why isn’t Conor McGregor at UFC 303?
Conor McGregor’s much anticipated return at UFC 303 was dashed by a fractured toe. He was due to fight Michael Chandler in the headline event until injury forced him to withdraw. “I’d be lying if I told you I wasn’t in deep pain right now watching fight week take place. Thank you for the messages of support and encouragement, my peers and fans,” McGregor explained on X.
Which is why Pereira was hastily drafted in to save the day. The Brazilian will take home the biggest payout of his UFC career so far. He took home around $1.13 million from last November’s bout with Prochazka reportedly pocketing approximately $552,000 but both are expected to earn significantly higher fees this time around with Pereira also to receive a “fight of the night” bonus along with Finally, pay-per-view points.
Our #UFC303 Championship Main Event is OFFICIAL 😤@Jiri_BJP steps on the scale at 204.5lbs[ TOMORROW on @ESPNPlus PPV | 10pmET/7pmPT ] pic.twitter.com/45qbc8JWNs
— UFC (@ufc) June 28, 2024
Prochazka seeking revenage for UFC 295 defeat
Some have estimated that Pereira could end up taking home a p closer to $3 million – doubling the $1,132,000 he banked at UFC 296 – his biggest career payday to date.
Prochazka meanwhile will also cash in a bigger fee than last time they met. The Czech is expected to make at least $750,000 from UFC 303 – $500,000 of that corresponding to the purse winnings, which will be boosted by bonuses, sponsorship payments and PPV points.
