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Dana White handed UFC heavyweight unofficial locker room bonus after three-round war
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- Dana White handed UFC heavyweight unofficial locker room bonus after three-round war
Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC
Dana White may have quietly introduced a new way to reward UFC fighters. While official bonuses remain limited, other athletes are now receiving extra payments behind the scenes.
The situation came to light after Vitor Petrino's win over Steven Asplund at UFC Fight Night: Emmett vs Vallejos. Despite a strong performance, Petrino did not receive one of the standard post-fight bonuses.
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Instead, the Brazilian revealed he was still compensated. White's move raised eyebrows amid ongoing criticism around fighter pay.
Dana White quietly rewarding fighters outside official bonuses
Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC
The details were confirmed by Petrino's coach Cristiano Marcello during an appearance on the Connect Cast podcast.
"Petrino told us that Dana [White] gave him some money in the locker room, since he didn't get the bonus, right?" host Alexandre Lemos asked.
Marcello replied: "He did. We were on the plane and Vitor was like, 'Look at that, master, how great.' It was well deserved. I believe his opponent also got one, and deservedly so."
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It points to a possible response from the promotion to long-standing criticism over fighter pay, offering flexibility without changing the official bonus structure, that was already expanded this year.
What's next for Vitor Petrino?
Since moving up to heavyweight, Petrino has secured three consecutive victories, continuing his steady rise.
His next challenge could be a bout with fellow Brazilian Valter Walker. The two have already exchanged words, adding heat to a potential match-up.
Walker enters the contest on a four-fight win streak, all secured by heel hook submission. Petrino, meanwhile, holds a 7-2 UFC record, while Walker stands at 4-1.
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It sets up a compelling clash featuring momentum, KO potential, and finishing ability.
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