Is the UFC Protecting Its Favorite Fighters? The Hidden Politics!

The UFC is the biggest and most influential MMA organization in the world, but with that power comes controversy. Many fans and analysts believe the promotion plays favorites, protecting certain fighters while making others take harder roads to the top. From selective matchmaking to favorable promotional pushes, the UFC’s business decisions often raise questions about fairness and transparency.

Selective Matchmaking: A Champion’s Privilege?

One of the biggest criticisms of the UFC is that some fighters receive easier paths to title shots while others are forced to grind through dangerous matchups. Fighters like Sean O’Malley and Paddy Pimblett have been accused of getting handpicked opponents to build their records and star power. Meanwhile, legitimate contenders often find themselves stuck in risky fights that could derail their title hopes.

Dana White’s Favoritism: Who Gets the Push?

Dana White, the president of the UFC, has never been shy about showing favoritism. Fighters who align with the UFC’s promotional interests—whether through trash talk, big pay-per-view numbers, or personal loyalty—tend to receive more opportunities. Fighters who challenge the UFC’s authority or negotiate hard for better pay, like Francis Ngannou, often find themselves sidelined or facing contract disputes.

The UFC has historically favored fighters who bring in high revenue, sometimes at the expense of those who have proven themselves in the Octagon. This favoritism affects rankings, title shots, and even promotional efforts, as fighters with strong UFC backing often receive better marketing and media exposure.

The Khamzat Chimaev Experiment

Khamzat Chimaev is one of the most glaring examples of UFC favoritism. While undeniably talented, he has been given a rapid rise to the top, skipping over contenders who have been waiting for years. His jump to middleweight and a potential fast-track to a title shot have left many questioning whether the UFC is bending the rules to create its next superstar.

The Fighters Who Got the Short End of the Stick

While some fighters receive protection, others seem to be held back by UFC politics. Fighters like Beneil Dariush, Belal Muhammad, and Leon Edwards (before he won the title) were forced to take unnecessary risks despite long winning streaks. These fighters had to prove themselves multiple times while others were given golden opportunities based on popularity rather than merit.

Conclusion: A Business Over a Sport?

At the end of the day, the UFC is a business. While the best fighters often rise to the top, the organization’s decision-making is heavily influenced by marketability, pay-per-view sales, and promotional value. Fighters who draw big crowds are given preferential treatment, while those who don’t fit the UFC’s narrative often struggle for recognition.

Is the UFC truly about finding the best fighter in the world, or is it more about entertainment and profitability? As long as the organization controls matchmaking, contract negotiations, and rankings, the debate over UFC favoritism will continue.

What do you think? Is the UFC protecting its favorite fighters, or is this just part of the fight business?