RORY MACDONALD believes that the UFC does not always have the best MMA fighters and the biggest money.
The Canadian spent seven years with the sport's most prestigious organization, but failed to win the UFC title.
Rory MacDonald was a Bellator champion in the past
MacDonald, however, left Bellator in 2017 to become a rival and became the champion at welterweight.
He packed his stuff to make a switch and joined the Professional Fighters League last year.
MacDonald was shocked to lose two games in his first season, and was eliminated in the semi-final.
Anthony Pettis, a former UFC champ, was also dumped out. This serves as a reminder of how talent is not limited to the octagon.
SunSport spoke with MacDonald: "I have been involved in MMA for a while, I've seen it repeatedly where promotions absorb other organizations, like WEC, the UFC and Strikeforce.
"You begin to see these guys coming in from other promotions into UFC and dominating. It's all around you.
"Obviously, UFC has the largest brand and market share. Their champions are amazing, but that doesn't mean they're always the best in the universe."
The PFL season has two regular season fights where fighters can earn points for their method of victory.
The top four qualify for the playoffs. This semi-final will determine the final two.
Finalists will fight for the $1m prize in a thrilling winner-take-all finale.
After resigning for the 2022 season, MacDonald has his second chance at PFL glory.
He started it off by beating Brett Cooper. Now he faces Sadibou Sy in Atlanta, where a victory will secure his place in the play-offs.
MacDonald is a surprise last year and a former Bellator and UFC star. This expectation has weighed heavily on his shoulders.
He stated that it had its pressures like his job. Covid was not helpful and it was an interesting 12 months where I learned a lot.
It didn't go the way I expected, but it was an enjoyable experience. I have made some improvements since then and feel that I am in the best place I can imagine.
"I feel my best, so I'm going to do my best and go after my goals."
MacDonald joined the PFL to pursue the highest amount of money and not just another promotion.
He has spoken out about the UFC's past pay structure and reminds MMA fans who are less aware of it.
MacDonald said: "Most die-hard UFC fans know, it is pretty well known that UFC doesn't pay fighters.
"The UFC knows that they are the best organisation, and that people want the opportunity to fight for their recognition and belts.
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"But I think that the less involved fans are most shocked to learn that you fight outside the UFC, but make much more.
"People are often a little surprised by this."
