Jared Cannonier (image via UFC/YouTube)

By FCF Staff

Jared Cannonier is extremely happy with how his fighting career is going, and says he has no issues with the UFC. But, the middleweight contender has made it clear he believes fighters should be making more money.

The 37-year-old is coming off a decision win over Kelvin Gastelum, which marked the first time Cannonier (14-5) had competed, since he lost by decision to Robert Whittaker in October. Following the victory, Cannonier appeared on The MMA Hour, and while discussing the issue of fighter pay, the middleweight said this (quotes via MMA Fighting).

“I’m not here to say the UFC isn’t paying me,” Cannonier said. “Because I’m getting paid pretty good from the UFC. It’s just that money don’t last forever. I’m not out here balling out of control, I’m not splurging or anything like that. I’m not stupid, I don’t spend my money on dumb stuff but it’s just life I guess. I would like to get paid.

“I am an elite level athlete. I would like to get paid like an elite level athlete. Like the one’s in the NFL and NBA and the one’s playing baseball and soccer and doing all that stuff. They get sponsors but they don’t need sponsors. All they need is that check through the organization. That’s what we need here in the UFC. That’s what we would all like.”

Cannonier also noted, however, that he’s happy in the UFC.

“I’m not complaining. It’s the UFC pay structure, we sign our contracts. But yes, I do want a bigger check. I don’t want be like these guys we see in the NFL, I’m not one of these guys to be out stunting on people and flossing and splurging like that. There’s bigger and better things I could be doing with my money.

“I’ve never been happier. This is the best job I’ve ever had in my life. I think the UFC takes very good care of its athletes. They make sure we have everything we need, especially during fight week. It’s the premier organization for mixed martial arts in the world. I’m part of history in that regard. I’m grateful and I’m blessed to be part of this organization. Yes, I do want more money. I would like one fight to be able to hold me up for at least two years, not one. Then off of that, we build off that.”

The former heavyweight and light heavyweight is currently ranked #3 in the UFC’s middleweight division.