UFC Ring Girls Salary: The Glamorous Side Of MMA

Apr 15 2025

Ever wondered how much UFC ring girls earn for walking around the Octagon in high heels? It's a job that looks glamorous, but there's more to it than meets the eye. UFC ring girls aren't just models strutting down the catwalk; they're part of a carefully orchestrated spectacle that draws millions of eyes to the biggest MMA events in the world. So, let's dive into the world of UFC ring girls and uncover the truth about their salary, responsibilities, and the glitz behind the grind.

When you think of UFC, you probably picture two fighters going toe-to-toe inside the Octagon. But there's another aspect of the show that catches everyone's attention—the ring girls. These ladies are more than just eye candy; they're an integral part of the event's presentation. Their job isn't as easy as it looks, and their salary reflects the hard work and dedication required to pull off such a high-pressure role.

UFC ring girls aren't just picked because they're pretty. They're selected based on their modeling experience, fitness level, and ability to handle the pressure of being in front of millions of viewers. If you're curious about how much they earn, what their responsibilities are, and how they got to where they are today, stick around. We're about to break it all down for you.

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What is a UFC Ring Girl?

Let's start with the basics. A UFC ring girl is a model hired by the Ultimate Fighting Championship to introduce fight cards during events. Their primary role is to hold up the numbered placards that indicate the round number, but their presence adds a touch of glamour to the otherwise brutal sport of MMA. Think of them as the bridge between the raw intensity of the fights and the polished production of the show.

These ladies aren't just random models plucked from a photoshoot. They're handpicked by UFC officials based on their looks, personality, and ability to handle the unique demands of the job. Being a UFC ring girl requires more than just beauty—it requires confidence, poise, and the ability to walk gracefully in high heels while holding up a heavy placard.

How Do UFC Ring Girls Get Selected?

The selection process for UFC ring girls is intense and highly competitive. Thousands of models apply for the position, but only a select few make the cut. Here's a breakdown of what it takes to become a UFC ring girl:

Modeling Experience: Most UFC ring girls have extensive modeling experience, both in print and runway. They need to be comfortable in front of cameras and under bright lights.
Fitness: UFC events are high-energy, and the ring girls need to match that energy. They're expected to maintain a certain level of fitness and physique, which is why many of them are also fitness enthusiasts or athletes.
Personality: It's not all about looks. UFC officials look for models with a strong personality and the ability to connect with the audience, both in person and through media appearances.
Professionalism: The job requires a lot of discipline and professionalism. Ring girls need to be reliable, punctual, and able to handle the pressure of being in the spotlight.

Once selected, these ladies undergo training to prepare them for the role. They learn how to walk in high heels on the Octagon's metal floor, how to hold the placards correctly, and how to maintain their composure under intense scrutiny.

UFC Ring Girls Salary: Breaking It Down

Now, let's get to the juicy part—how much do UFC ring girls earn? While the exact salary varies depending on the event and the model's experience, the average pay for a UFC ring girl is around $1,000 to $2,000 per event. Some top-tier models with more experience can earn upwards of $5,000 for high-profile events like UFC 290 or the UFC International Fight Week.

It's important to note that this salary isn't just for walking around the Octagon. It covers all the prep work that goes into the role, including fittings, rehearsals, and media appearances. The ring girls also receive additional compensation for travel, lodging, and other expenses related to the event.

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Factors That Affect UFC Ring Girls' Salary

Not all UFC ring girls earn the same amount. Several factors influence their salary, including:

Experience: Models with more experience in the industry and with UFC events tend to earn more.
Event Size: Larger events, such as pay-per-view fights, usually pay more than smaller, regional events.
Location: Events held in major cities or international locations may offer higher salaries due to the increased exposure and travel costs.
Popularity: Some ring girls become fan favorites and may negotiate higher salaries based on their popularity and social media following.

While the salary might seem high, it's important to remember that this isn't a full-time job for most of the ring girls. Many of them work as models, fitness instructors, or in other industries when they're not walking the Octagon. For some, being a UFC ring girl is a stepping stone to bigger opportunities in the entertainment industry.

Responsibilities of UFC Ring Girls

Being a UFC ring girl isn't as simple as walking around with a placard. These ladies have a lot of responsibilities that go unnoticed by the casual viewer. Here's a look at what they do behind the scenes:

Pre-Event Prep: Ring girls have to prepare weeks in advance for each event. This includes fittings for their outfits, rehearsals for walking the Octagon, and planning their travel and accommodations.
Event Day Duties: On the day of the event, ring girls arrive hours before the fights begin. They have to get hair and makeup done, attend a final briefing with UFC officials, and prepare for their walk-around duties.
Post-Event Obligations: After the event, ring girls often participate in media interviews, social media posts, and other promotional activities. They also have to pack up and head home, which can be a long process, especially for international events.

It's a lot of work, but the ring girls wouldn't trade it for anything. They love being part of such a high-energy, adrenaline-fueled environment and enjoy the opportunity to showcase their talent on a global stage.

Challenges Faced by UFC Ring Girls

Despite the glitz and glamour, being a UFC ring girl isn't without its challenges. Here are some of the hurdles they face:

Pressure: Walking the Octagon in front of millions of viewers is no small feat. The ring girls have to maintain their composure and confidence at all times.
Physical Demands: The job requires a lot of physical stamina. Walking in high heels on a metal floor while holding a heavy placard isn't easy, and they have to do it multiple times during an event.
Stereotypes: Unfortunately, some people view UFC ring girls as nothing more than eye candy. The ladies have to work hard to prove that they're more than just their looks and that they bring value to the event.

Despite these challenges, the ring girls continue to perform their duties with grace and professionalism, proving that they're an essential part of the UFC experience.

UFC Ring Girls and Social Media

In today's digital age, social media plays a big role in the lives of UFC ring girls. Many of them have large followings on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter, where they share glimpses of their lives both inside and outside the Octagon. This has opened up new opportunities for them, such as brand partnerships, sponsorships, and even TV appearances.

Some of the most popular UFC ring girls have leveraged their social media presence to build successful careers in entertainment and business. For example, Joanne Ligden, who was a UFC ring girl for years, went on to become a successful model and TV personality. She even hosted her own reality show, "Ring Girls: Vegas," which gave viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the lives of UFC ring girls.

How Social Media Has Changed the Game

Social media has changed the game for UFC ring girls in several ways:

Increased Exposure: Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have given ring girls a platform to showcase their personalities and talents beyond just walking the Octagon.
Brand Opportunities: Many ring girls have secured lucrative brand deals and sponsorships thanks to their large social media followings.
Community Building: Social media has allowed ring girls to connect with fans and each other, creating a supportive community that extends beyond the UFC events.

While social media has brought many benefits, it's also brought its share of challenges. The ring girls have to deal with online criticism, trolls, and the pressure to maintain a certain image. But for the most part, they've embraced the digital world and used it to their advantage.

The Evolution of UFC Ring Girls

The role of UFC ring girls has evolved significantly over the years. When the UFC first started, the ring girls were more of an afterthought, simply there to add a touch of glamour to the events. But as the sport grew in popularity, so did the role of the ring girls. They became an integral part of the show, with their own fan base and media presence.

In recent years, the UFC has made efforts to empower its ring girls and give them more opportunities to showcase their talents. They've appeared in commercials, TV shows, and even movies, proving that they're more than just models. The UFC has also worked to address some of the criticisms about the role, such as the lack of diversity and the objectification of women.

The Future of UFC Ring Girls

As the UFC continues to grow and evolve, so will the role of its ring girls. We can expect to see more diversity, more opportunities for the ladies to showcase their talents, and a greater emphasis on empowering women in the sport. The future looks bright for UFC ring girls, and we can't wait to see where they go from here.

Conclusion: Why UFC Ring Girls Matter

In conclusion, UFC ring girls play a vital role in the world of MMA. They bring glamour, excitement, and energy to the events, making them a must-watch spectacle for millions of fans around the globe. While their salary might not seem like much compared to the fighters, it's important to recognize the hard work and dedication that goes into their role.

So, the next time you watch a UFC event, take a moment to appreciate the ring girls and all they bring to the table. And if you're inspired by their journey, consider following their careers on social media or checking out some of the amazing things they're doing outside the Octagon.

What do you think about the role of UFC ring girls? Let us know in the comments below, and don't forget to share this article with your friends who love MMA as much as you do!