The quote highlights a significant aspect of the UFC's business strategy by emphasizing that matchups between popular fighters are highly lucrative. In this context, Robert Whittaker points out that a bout between Michael Bisping and Georges St-Pierre would be particularly attractive from an economic standpoint due to their widespread appeal among fans.
When delving deeper into the quote, it becomes clear that Whittaker is underscoring the UFC's tendency to prioritize financial success over other factors such as fighter rankings or personal development. The organization often arranges high-profile fights between well-known names to maximize ticket sales and pay-per-view buys, regardless of whether these fighters are at their peak form or if there are more deserving matchups available. This approach not only benefits the UFC financially but also keeps fans engaged with exciting bouts.
Robert Whittaker, the author of this quote, is a renowned mixed martial artist from New Zealand who has had a successful career in both Strike Force and the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Known for his technical prowess and versatility, Whittaker held the middleweight title in the UFC for several years. His insights into the business side of MMA are often valuable due to his extensive experience competing at the highest level.