Ronda Rousey rips into UFC fighter pay, accuses Champions of using OnlyFans; Valentina Shevchenko fires back
(Courtesy : UFC)
Ronda Rousey is making headlines after the Netflix presser.
A public war of words has erupted between two of the biggest names in women’s MMA after Ronda Rousey criticized the modern state of the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
During a Netflix press conference promoting her upcoming fight with Gina Carano, Rousey criticized the UFC’s business model after the promotion’s reported seven-year, $7.7 billion broadcast deal with Paramount.
According to Rousey, the shift toward the streaming era has changed the company’s priorities.
“Once they moved into the streaming model, it’s just not about putting on the best fights possible anymore,” Rousey said.
She argued that UFC CEO Dana White is now limited by corporate pressures.
“Dana is legally beholden to the shareholders and to maximize shareholder value.”
Ronda Rousey criticizes fighter pay and mentions Valentina Shevchenko
Rousey went further by criticizing fighter pay and claiming many athletes are forced to look elsewhere to earn money. She added that many fighters struggle financially despite the promotion’s massive revenue.
“It used to be that UFC was the best place you could come in combat sports to make a living and be paid fairly,” she said. “And now it’s no longer. It’s one of the worst places to go.
These people, a lot of them at the ground level, they can’t support their families. They’re living poverty level fighting full-time. It’s why their champions like Valentina are selling pictures of their t*tt**s on OnlyFans,” she said.
Rousey also claimed the UFC is “bleeding talent because of their short-term greed,” and not thinking about the future of MMA.
“They’re thinking about the next quarter. They’re thinking about the shareholders and not thinking about their responsibility to be stewards of the future of the sport.”
Valentina Shevchenko responds with a sharp message
Shevchenko quickly responded to the comments on social media. Posting on X, the UFC Flyweight champion dismissed Rousey’s criticism and suggested the former UFC star was out of touch with the current era. She also delivered a pointed jab at Rousey’s absence from MMA competition.
“It’s 2026. Fighters using OnlyFans is just a new way to connect with fans, Looks like Ronda slept too long after her last fight in 2016.” Shevchenko wrote.
The exchange highlights the growing debate about fighter pay and the changing landscape of combat sports.
Rousey has long been outspoken about business decisions within the UFC since her departure. Meanwhile, Shevchenko’s response reflects how many modern fighters view platforms like OnlyFans as another tool to connect with fans and supplement income.
With both fighters remaining influential figures in MMA, the public disagreement has quickly become one of the sport’s most talked-about controversies.
Why did Ronda Rousey criticize the UFC?
Rousey argued that the UFC has changed since signing a $7.7 billion media deal and now prioritizes shareholders over putting on the best fights.
What did Rousey say about Valentina Shevchenko?
She said that many fighters struggle financially despite the promotion’s massive revenue, which is why the champions like “Valentina are selling pictures of their t*tt**s on OnlyFans.”
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Blesson Daniel is a sub-editor who spends his days organizing words and managing social media, crafting bursts of creativity designed to make people smile. He occasionally dives into writing as well — whether it’s crafting articles, brainstorming ideas, or finding the perfect caption. Believing that every piece of writing offers an opportunity to tell a story, Blesson brings creativity and thoughtfulness to every project he takes on. When he’s not glued to his laptop, Blesson is likely planning his next travel adventure or losing himself in music. A passionate explorer of new places, sounds, and ideas, he believes in balancing work, play, and a good playlist in the background. Whether he’s editing, writing, or daydreaming about his next trip, Blesson is always chasing that sweet spot where creativity and curiosity collide to create something memorable.