McGregor vs Holloway 2: Cody Garbrandt calls on UFC to support retired fighters

Former bantamweight champion Cody Garbrandt is calling for more support from the UFC to help fighters transition into retirement.

According to figures released by state athletic commissions, the UFC pays its entry-level fighters around $12,000 (£8,960) to $20,000 (£14,900).

The UFC also offers a $50,000 (£41,000) performance bonus in addition to the win bonus.

Warriors are also classified as independent contractors and are therefore not entitled to benefits such as pensions or long-term health insurance.

Garbrandt, 35, is nearing the end of his mixed martial arts career as he prepares for his 23rd fight at UFC 329 on Saturday.

“I don’t know how many years I have left in the sport, but I pray that God allows me to be healthy, intact and that I can leave on my own terms,” ​​Gerbrandt told MMA Junkie.

“I think a lot of fighters don’t get that opportunity. They have to fight because they need the money. They have to fight injured. It’s tough.

“I wish the UFC would have done a little more to help us with — health care, insurance, 401K (an employer-sponsored retirement plan in the U.S.). It’s scary to leave something that’s secure and you’ve chased your whole life, and then it’s done and those paychecks don’t come, those sponsorships don’t come.”