Joe Rogan's Bold Financial Predictions for Netflix-MVP Supercard: Diaz and Ngannou Set for Record Purses

Prominent UFC commentator Joe Rogan has provided his financial analysis regarding the highly anticipated Netflix MMA event, supported by Most Valuable Promotions (MVP). Rogan suggests that the event's innovative financial structure could result in unprecedented fighter earnings, estimating Nate Diaz's potential purse to exceed $10 million and Francis Ngannou's to reach an astonishing $20 million.

Rogan's Payday Speculation Unveiled

During a UFC London Fight Companion broadcast, Rogan delved into the rumored financial figures associated with the Netflix-MVP card. He indicated that if the current reports about Diaz's compensation are accurate, the former UFC star is poised to earn "more than 10" million dollars. Rogan further proposed that Ngannou, given his unique standing as a lineal heavyweight champion who departed the UFC without losing his title in the octagon, would likely command "20" million. He highlighted Ngannou's significant leverage, having walked away from the UFC at the height of his career, as a key factor in his projected earnings.

The Netflix Card: A New Era for MMA Broadcasts

This landmark event signifies Netflix's debut in live mixed martial arts broadcasting. Scheduled for May 16, 2026, at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, the show is being promoted by Jake Paul's MVP. Netflix has confirmed that the broadcast will be available live to its immense global subscriber base of over 325 million, with no additional pay-per-view fees. This strategic move represents a shift from traditional PPV models, prioritizing mass audience reach and global brand exposure.

The event features a compelling three-fight main card. The headline bout will see Ronda Rousey square off against Gina Carano, marking a highly anticipated return for both legends. Francis Ngannou is slated to face Philipe Lins, the 2018 PFL heavyweight tournament winner, while Nate Diaz will battle "Platinum" Mike Perry in a five-round welterweight contest under the Unified Rules of MMA.

Nate Diaz's Comeback and UFC Dynamics

For Nate Diaz, this fight represents his first professional MMA appearance since concluding his UFC contract in 2022. Following his UFC departure, Diaz transitioned to boxing, where he compiled a 1-1 record, including a victory over Jorge Masvidal and a decision loss to Jake Paul. Current betting odds position Diaz as a notable underdog at approximately +175 against Perry, who is favored at around -225, reflecting Perry's recent activity and success in both MMA and bare-knuckle fighting. UFC President Dana White recently disclosed that he met with Diaz to discuss a potential return to the UFC, but conceded that MVP and Netflix presented an "offer he couldn't refuse." White expressed his support for Diaz while leaving open the possibility of a future UFC reunion, depending on the outcome of his bout with Perry.

Ngannou's Strategic Leverage and MVP's Vision

Ngannou's involvement in the Netflix event aligns with his calculated free agency strategy after his high-profile exit from the UFC. His groundbreaking deal with the PFL specifically granted him the flexibility to pursue boxing and other external opportunities. Rogan's speculation of a $20 million purse reignites long-standing debates surrounding fighter compensation in combat sports. It also highlights how a dominant streaming platform, in partnership with an agile promoter like MVP, can disrupt conventional industry structures and establish a unique market where prominent fighters gain significant negotiation power against established organizations.

With Netflix executives publicly stating that the May 16 show is intended as a major "statement piece," and MVP promising further announcements, the star-studded lineup—featuring Rousey, Carano, Diaz, Perry, and Ngannou—underscores a deliberate effort to position this event as a high-visibility test case. The aim is to ascertain whether MMA can truly thrive on a global subscription platform, leveraging its immense scale rather than relying solely on traditional pay-per-view revenue.