Kevin Lee, a professional mixed martial arts fighter, reportedly revealed that Bitcoin (BTC) was one of the most significant driving forces fueling his choice to sign with a new promotion firm.

Specifically, Lee will reportedly receive the payout for four of his fights in the form of BTC from the Russia-based Eagle Fighting Championship. 

Lee has reportedly been a HODLer since before the 2017 bull run and previously cashed out a part of his profits to pay for livings when he had to undergo knee surgery. 

“To be paid in Bitcoin and not give me any pushback on it whatsoever, was huge in the decision [to sign with Eagle FC]. It gives me a lot more financial security and will help me fight better, too.” Lee additionally remarked. 

Payments from the Eagle FC to Lee were reportedly not specified publicly, but Lee has reportedly made an earning of a maximum of $280,000 via his UFC fights with Tony Ferguson. Lee further hinted during an interview that his new promotion firm pays a higher level compared to what he earned in the contract with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), which means a possible salary of 5.86 BTC or more at current prices. 

Lee – alternatively referred to as The Motown Phenom – reportedly suffered from a fine and a suspension lasting half a year, following receiving positive testing status for Adderall. He was then released from his contract with the UFC prior to Eagle FC making efforts to include him in their roster.

The UFC has reportedly been dipping its toe in the pool that is crypto assets, via alliances with crypto and blockchain entities. 

In July, the organization reportedly entered a $175 million agreement with Crypto.com for the next decade, an agreement that ultimately resulted in the introduction of UFC-licensed non-fungible tokens.