Cole Smith (photo via UFC / YouTube)

By FCF Staff

Cole Smith is clearly thrilled to be a member of the UFC now, but the Canadian fighter isn’t happy about what he and his fellow fighters are getting paid.

The 30-year-old bantamweight made his Octagon debut at UFC Ottawa this past weekend, and worked his way to a decision win over veteran, Mitch Gagnon. After the win, Smith had this to say about the state of fighter compensation (quotes via MMA Junkie):

“This sport sucks, man,” Smith said. “Cutting weight, doing a bunch of (expletive) I don’t want to do, and I want to get paid accordingly. It’s one thing you’re fighting for peanuts your whole life. I’ve mooched rides, I’ve mooched food, my brothers have to give me clothes. It’s about time. I want to be paid.

“It’s bull(expletive) that someone in the NBA who doesn’t even touch the court is getting $600,000 while I’m out here fighting my ass off, and I’m getting $10,000.”

“I am super happy to be here – 100 percent,” Smith said. “My first experiences here have been absolutely amazing. They’ve treated me great. So just want to throw that out there. I love the UFC. I’m very proud to be here.”

With the win on Saturday, Smith moved his overall record to 7-0. Gagnon’s record, meanwhile, fell to 12-5.