Imagine stepping into the octagon as a massive underdog, defying all odds to deliver one of the most thrilling battles of the year, only to be overlooked for the financial reward that could change your life. That’s the heart-wrenching reality facing UFC fighter Ethyn Ewing right now—and it’s a story that hits hard in the world of mixed martial arts. But here’s where it gets controversial: was UFC boss Dana White’s decision to skip the $50,000 bonus fair, or is there a bigger issue at play with how the promotion values its undercard stars? Let’s dive into the details and uncover what really happened, including the surprising twist that has fans buzzing.
Just a few weeks ago, Ewing celebrated a stunning victory at UFC 322, an event packed with marquee matchups. Yet, despite the glory, he’s already back on the jobsite, hammering away at his blue-collar gig. For those new to MMA, this isn’t unusual—many fighters juggle day jobs alongside their dreams of glory in the cage, balancing training sessions with paychecks that keep the lights on. It’s a grind that tests not just their physical prowess but their mental resilience, as they chase that elusive full-time career in the sport.
One such fighter is Ethyn Ewing, who’s actively pursuing a spot in the UFC’s elite ranks. He made a last-minute debut at UFC 322 against rising star Malcolm Wellmaker, stepping in when Cody Haddon pulled out. Before this, Ewing was the reigning bantamweight champion in Urijah Faber’s A1 Combat promotion—a solid pedigree that showcased his skills in a smaller circuit. Grabbing this opportunity at UFC 322 was a bold move, and ‘The Professor Finesser’ (Ewing’s nickname) didn’t waste it.
Heading into the bout, the odds were heavily stacked against him; Wellmaker, known as ‘The Machine,’ was the clear favorite and one of the brightest prospects in the game. Early on, the 31-year-old Wellmaker showed his dominance, controlling the pace with impressive technique. But Ewing fought back fiercely, turning the tide and applying relentless pressure. After three rounds of edge-of-your-seat action, the judges declared Ewing the unanimous winner, transforming his unexpected appearance into a triumphant success story.
This bantamweight showdown was widely hailed as a prime candidate for Fight of the Night—an accolade that recognizes the most entertaining fight on the card and comes with a $50,000 bonus for each fighter. For newcomers, think of it as MMA’s version of an Oscar for best performance; it’s not just about winning, but about captivating the audience with skill, drama, and heart. But UFC president Dana White chose not to award it to Ewing and Wellmaker, which shocked many observers. And this is the part most people miss: despite the fight’s undeniable excitement, it slipped through the cracks—likely because it was buried on the undercard, far from the main event spotlight.
As a result, Ewing has returned to his everyday job this week, sharing his coworkers’ reactions on social media. It’s a poignant reminder of the unpredictability in MMA, where a breakout performance doesn’t always guarantee financial security.
So, why did Dana White overlook this pair for the bonus? The reasons aren’t crystal clear, but the most plausible explanation is that the fight flew under the radar due to its position on the card. Instead of Fight of the Night, the UFC handed out an extra Performance of the Night award—another $50,000 prize for standout individual efforts. This decision has sparked debate: was it an oversight, or a strategic choice to highlight different aspects of the event? Some argue White prioritizes headliners, while others wonder if it’s a missed opportunity to reward underdogs like Ewing, who embody the spirit of the sport. For example, in past events, undercard gems have turned fighters into stars overnight—think of how bonuses have launched careers for names like Amanda Nunes or Conor McGregor early on.
What do you think—should Dana White have given Ewing and Wellmaker that Fight of the Night bonus, or was the extra Performance of the Night a fair alternative? Is this a sign of broader issues in how the UFC compensates its fighters, especially those starting out? Share your thoughts in the comments; I’d love to hear if you agree, disagree, or have your own take on MMA’s rewarding system!