Unlike boxing, it is common practice in MMA to have a fighter’s purse split into base/win. You have your guaranteed purse regardless of the result, and usually you can double it if you actually come away with a victory.
Longtime UFC analyst Joe Rogan would like to see that model go away.
On his “Joe Rogan Experience” podcast, Rogan expressed his dislike for win bonuses, specifically citing how poor MMA judging can impact pay.
“First of all, if you’re going to do a win bonus, you’ve got to do something about the judging,” Rogan said (via MMA Junkie).