It seems UFC president Dana White is finally considering long-term health plans for fighters following their UFC careers.
The UFC does not currently have any health programs in place for fighters after they have competed under the organization. The pension plan may help older athletes more. Specifically, because the veteran fighters need more help with health costs than the average fighter just starting out. The news was first reported by Karyn Bryant on Instagram Live.
Karyn Bryant Asks Dana White About Pension Plans
Specifically, within a Q&A session on Instagram Live, the UFC commentator asked the UFC boss about the possibility of a pension for retired fighters.
In the interview, Bryant bluntly asked Dana White about the possibility.
“Will the UFC ever offer their fighters full-time health benefits so they can have them after their careers are over and possibly deal with life-altering issues from fighting (?)” Karyn Bryant said.
Dana White responded, “Soon.”
While the answer is mysterious as we have no idea when these actions will be implemented, but it is exciting nonetheless. In addition, when asked by a fan about the possibility, UFC president Dana White responded in a similar fashion. This is the first acknowledgment of a possible fighter pension since 2011, so it is a big deal as it could offer fighters a gigantic incentive to put forth an even more exciting fight when they are finally in the Octagon.
Overall, it’s a huge step in the right direction. Without a doubt, rising promotions like Bare Knuckle boxing put pressure on the UFC. As one of the first combat sports companies to create a pension for fighters, undoubtedly that alone will attract even more MMA fighters to the new sport.
Do you think UFC offering a pension is long overdue or is now the right time?
