The UFC is the premier organization in mixed martial arts—a global powerhouse that helped turn cage fighting into a mainstream spectacle. But despite its dominance, the promotion has had its share of low points—moments that exposed cracks in its credibility, leadership, and direction.

Here are some of the most significant moments that made the UFC look weak—in the eyes of fighters, fans, and even its own athletes.

Fighter Pay Controversies

One of the most persistent issues that has made the UFC look weak—especially in the court of public opinion—is the ongoing battle over fighter pay. Top stars like Francis Ngannou, Jon Jones, and Nate Diaz have publicly clashed with the promotion over compensation.

When Ngannou left the UFC as its reigning heavyweight champion in 2023 due to contract and pay disputes, it sent a powerful message:

“I fought out my contract. I stood for what I believe in,” Ngannou said.
The UFC looked inflexible—and unwilling to prioritize fighter satisfaction over business.

Jon Jones’ Repeated Legal and PED Issues

Jon Jones is arguably the most talented fighter to ever step inside the Octagon. But his numerous suspensions, failed drug tests, and legal troubles put the UFC in a difficult spot for years.

At times, the UFC appeared to bend its own rules to accommodate its biggest star—relocating entire fight cards, like UFC 232, to avoid licensing issues. While protecting star power might be business-savvy, it weakened the UFC’s image as a fair, rules-based organization.

Dana White’s Slap Incident

In January 2023, a video surfaced of UFC President Dana White slapping his wife during a public altercation in Cabo San Lucas. Despite apologizing, White faced zero formal punishment from the UFC or its parent company.

For an organization that disciplines fighters for unprofessional conduct, this was seen as a major moment of hypocrisy and PR failure. Many called it a “massive double standard,” and critics questioned why the UFC didn’t even issue a temporary suspension.

Lack of Clarity in Title Shots and Rankings

Another recurring issue: confusing matchmaking and title shot decisions.

Why was Colby Covington given a title shot at UFC 296 after being inactive for over a year?

Why is Tom Aspinall, the interim heavyweight champ, still waiting on a unification bout with Jon Jones?

The UFC’s willingness to favor star power over meritocracy undermines its rankings system—and sends a clear message that politics sometimes beat performance.

Power Plays with Fighters Leaving for Boxing

Whether it was Conor McGregor vs. Mayweather or Ngannou fighting Fury and Joshua, the UFC has often looked unwilling to fully embrace cross-promotion—until forced to.

Ngannou’s exit and eventual success in boxing highlighted something the UFC didn’t want fans to see: that top-level MMA fighters can thrive—and earn more—outside the Octagon. The UFC’s inability to prevent that only made it look more controlling, and less adaptable.

TUF and “Entertainment Over Competition” Criticism

The Ultimate Fighter was once revolutionary. But in recent years, many fans and fighters have criticized the UFC for shifting too much toward entertainment, gimmicks, and marketing-first matchmaking.

CM Punk’s signing

Power Slap League distractions

Fights booked more for clicks than credibility

All of this creates the perception that the UFC values spectacle over sport.

Final Thoughts

The UFC is still the king of MMA. But these moments—and others like them—have left dents in its armor. Transparency, fairness, and putting fighters first will be essential for the UFC to remain not just the biggest—but the most respected—organization in combat sports.

Because no matter how strong you are, a legacy can be weakened in moments.