Nate Diaz and Conor McGregor's highly anticipated rematch at UFC 202 has broken the record for highest-selling non-boxing pay-per-view in MMA history, with a reported 1.65 million buys. The event, which took place on August 20, 2016, narrowly edged out their first fight at UFC 196, which drew 1.6 million pay-per-view buys.
What happened?
The UFC 202 main event saw McGregor win by majority decision, avenging his loss to Diaz in their first fight. The event was a huge success, with both fighters earning an extra $50,000 for taking Fight of the Night honors. McGregor's $3-million fight purse also broke the previous record of $2.5 million earned by Brock Lesnar at UFC 200.
Why it matters for Nate Diaz
The record-breaking pay-per-view sales are a testament to the massive popularity of Nate Diaz and Conor McGregor. The two fighters have been involved in some of the biggest fights in UFC history, and their rivalry has been a major draw for fans. The success of UFC 202 is also a reflection of the growing popularity of the UFC, with the event being the third promotional event of the year to surpass one million pay-per-view buys.
What comes next?
The record-breaking pay-per-view sales will likely have a significant impact on the UFC's future events. The promotion will likely look to capitalize on the success of UFC 202 by booking more high-profile fights, including potential rematches between Diaz and McGregor. The event also sets the stage for future pay-per-view events, with the UFC looking to continue its growth and success in the world of MMA.
The bigger picture
The success of UFC 202 is not just a reflection of the popularity of Nate Diaz and Conor McGregor, but also the growing popularity of the UFC as a whole. The event is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the UFC's fighters, promoters, and staff, who have worked tirelessly to build the sport into what it is today. As the UFC continues to grow and evolve, it will be interesting to see how the promotion builds on the success of UFC 202 and what the future holds for Nate Diaz and Conor McGregor.
The UFC is not in the habit of disclosing its pay-per-view figures, but the reported sales do not account for purchases made directly through the promotion as opposed to television. The pay-per-view numbers are not the only records McGregor has been linked to. His $3-million fight purse at UFC 202 broke the previous record of $2.5 million Lesnar earned just over a month earlier at UFC 200. The Irishman and Diaz also earned an extra $50,000 in taking Fight of the Night honors. UFC 202 was the third promotional event of this year to surpass one million pay-per-view buys.