Renato Moicano said no to the UFC's compensation that will bring Anderson Silva R$56 million.

Renato Moicano said no to the UFC compensation that will yield R$56 million to Anderson Silva. Photo: SUPER FIGHTS montage

Amidst the millionaire repercussions over the compensation that Anderson Silva should receive from the UFC, estimated at more than US$ 10 million (around R$ 56 million), one figure stands out for having taken the opposite path. Renato Moicano emphatically refused the money from the antitrust lawsuit filed by athletes against Ultimate.

On the 'Show Me The Money' podcast in July of this year, Moicano revealed that he gave up an estimated $100 to $150 (equivalent to up to R$831) due to personal convictions. For the fighter, accepting the compensation would be inconsistent with the stance he has held throughout his career in the sport.

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Anderson Silva is expected to receive more than R$56 million in compensation in a lawsuit against the UFC.

"I didn't accept it. This is easy money. A free check. I joined the UFC knowing the conditions. I signed the contract, even though it was tough, and I kept my word," Moicano said at the time.

The Brazilian's criticism wasn't limited to the organization. Moicano was blunt in pointing out that many of his colleagues who accepted the payment were, in his words, "lacking morals."

Anderson Silva to receive 'big payout' from UFC

The posture contrasts sharply with that of Anderson Silva, one of the biggest names in the history of MMA, who will be the biggest individual beneficiary in the legal process.

According to journalist John S. Nash, 'Spider' is expected to pocket $10,33 million as part of the $375 million deal signed between the UFC and more than a thousand fighters who competed in the organization between 2010 and 2017.

Moicano fought in the UFC during this exact timeframe and would have been automatically eligible for compensation. However, he chose to sit out of the competition by choice.

"At the time, I agreed to fight for 8 to fight and 8 to win. I needed the chance. And I took that risk. It wouldn't make sense to complain and take that money now," he explained.

What is antitrust action?

The antitrust lawsuit filed against the UFC began in 2014 and accused the organization of monopolistic practices that restricted competition in the market and financially harmed athletes. The settlement was approved in February 2025 by a US federal judge, and the funds began to be distributed this fall.

Of the 1.067 fighters selected, 35 will receive over US$1 million. The lowest payment recorded was just over US$16. The average is around US$250 per fighter.