The Nevada State Athletic Commission is set to hold disciplinary hearings concerning the UFC 329 purses of Max Holloway, Paddy Pimblett, and Gable Steveson.
According to MMA Junkie’s Nolan King, the commission is scheduled to address the withholding of the three fighters’ purses for what has been described as “disciplinary reasons.”
While no specific reason was initially provided, multiple sources have indicated that the issue stems from the fighters climbing over the Octagon fence following their victories.
All three fighters picked up stoppage wins at UFC 329 on July 11 in Las Vegas. Max Holloway defeated Conor McGregor after McGregor suffered a knee injury, while Pimblett submitted Benoit Saint Denis and Steveson stopped Elisha Ellison in his UFC debut.
Max Holloway, Paddy Pimblett and Gable Steveson Face Disciplinary Action
The Nevada commission’s decision could potentially delay the fighters receiving their official purses from UFC 329. The language surrounding the hearings initially offered little clarity, with the commission citing “disciplinary reasons.” However, the rule has reportedly been used in situations involving fighters scaling or leaving the Octagon.
Multiple sources have since indicated that cage-hopping was the reason behind the disciplinary action.
The situation has created an unusual post-fight issue for three fighters who all celebrated their victories by getting over the Octagon fence.
Paddy Pimblett’s Manager Calls for Rule Change
Paddy Pimblett’s manager, Graham Boylan, has already criticized the rule and called for the commission to reconsider how it is applied.
“For the record this rule needs to be changed. Yes it’s the fight game and systems need to be in play to make it all work but this rule does nothing to support that. It’s 2026 apply a little common sense,” Boylan said, according to the report.
Boylan’s comments reflect the frustration surrounding the potential withholding of fighters’ purses over what is essentially a post-fight celebration.
The issue is particularly notable because cage-hopping has become a common sight in MMA, especially when fighters celebrate major victories with their teams or loved ones immediately after the referee stops a bout.
All Three Fighters Scored Finishes at UFC 329
Paddy Pimblett had one of the night’s most impressive performances, submitting Benoit Saint Denis inside the opening minute and earning a $100,000 Performance of the Night bonus.
Gable Steveson also made an immediate impact in his UFC debut, stopping Ellison in the first round. Max Holloway, meanwhile, was declared the winner of the main event after Conor McGregor suffered a serious knee injury just over a minute into the contest.
Max Holloway and Gable Steveson were also among the fighters who received $25,000 finish bonuses at the event, while Pimblett collected the larger Performance of the Night award.
Nevada Commission Hearing Could Determine Their Pay
The upcoming hearings will determine how the commission handles the disciplinary matter and whether the fighters’ purses remain withheld.
For now, the controversy has shifted attention away from their performances and toward an old MMA regulation that could carry significant financial consequences.
With cage-hopping having become a familiar part of post-fight celebrations, Paddy Pimblett’s camp believes the rule is outdated and deserves another look. Whether the Nevada State Athletic Commission agrees remains to be seen.
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