Former UFC strawweight champion Jessica Andrade has been working as a delivery driver and taking on odd jobs while recovering from a shoulder injury, according to an interview on the Brazilian MMA podcast Direto de Vegas. The 34-year-old fighter, who has competed 30 times in the Ultimate Fighting Championship since her promotional debut in 2013, has not stepped into the Octagon since losing to Loopy Godinez last August.
Life Outside the Octagon: Delivery Driving and Landscaping
According to her interview on Direto de Vegas, Andrade has taken up app-based delivery work to generate income during her athletic hiatus. “I work as a delivery driver. I deliver meals and things like that. I just pick up orders through an app and make the deliveries,” Andrade stated. The veteran fighter, who has secured 17 wins inside the promotion, emphasized a strong work ethic. “I do whatever it takes. I’m not afraid of hard work. I can do just about anything.”
Beyond delivering meals, Andrade reported starting a landscaping project at a friend’s property. The physical labor involves tasks like removing rocks, laying down grass, and painting fences. “If I’m good at this it becomes one more thing I can add if I ever find myself short on cash. We need some extra money,” Andrade explained regarding the venture.
Financial Realities and Historical Context in the UFC
This is not the first time financial strain has surfaced publicly for the former champion. In 2018, Andrade revealed that she sold her UFC clothing, backpack, and gloves due to difficulties securing sponsorship revenue, though she acknowledged at the time that she was paid very well by the organization. Later financial pressures included fighting five times in 2023 specifically to cover the costs of her divorce, according to her statements. In the following year, she publicly accused her former coach, Gilliard Parana, of withholding money from her—allegations that Parana denied.
Comparing Revenue Splits: MMA Versus Boxing
Andrade’s current situation reignites broader discussions regarding fighter compensation structures across combat sports. According to industry reports, the UFC allocates approximately 20 percent of its revenue toward athlete pay. In contrast, boxing events typically allocate about 60 percent of event revenue to the fighters.
This structural discrepancy gained renewed attention after boxer Conor Benn signed a reported £11m one-fight deal with Zuffa Boxing, an entity owned by UFC president Dana White. When questioned by media and athletes regarding criticisms of fighter pay, White has consistently pointed to the fact that overall UFC fighter compensation has risen steadily since 2001.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why has Jessica Andrade been working as a delivery driver?
According to her statements on the Direto de Vegas podcast, Andrade took up delivery driving and landscaping odd jobs to earn extra money while recovering from a shoulder injury sustained during her bout against Loopy Godinez.
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What percentage of revenue does the UFC allocate to fighter pay?
Industry figures indicate that the UFC gives approximately 20 percent of its revenue to fighter pay, whereas boxing promotions typically allocate about 60 percent of event revenue to boxers.
Has Jessica Andrade faced financial difficulties before?
Yes. In 2018, she stated she sold her UFC gear due to sponsor struggles, and she noted that she fought five times in 2023 to pay for her divorce.
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