Demetrious Johnson, widely known as ‘Mighty Mouse,’ has not only conquered the octagon but also left a mark in the virtual world of gaming, raking in a significant sum from the UFC’s acclaimed video game series.
While his prowess inside the cage is well-documented with gold medals and world championships, Johnson’s love for gaming extends beyond the realms of professional fighting. From immersing himself in classics like Mega Man X to embracing modern favorites like Grand Theft Auto V and Street Fighter, ‘Mighty Mouse’ is no stranger to the gaming universe.
Among his gaming ventures, Johnson found himself featured in EA Games’ UFC series, alongside other iconic titles such as Madden, Battlefield, and Mass Effect.
In a recent video shared on his YouTube channel, the former UFC flyweight world champion peeled back the curtain on his earnings from licensing his likeness to the video game franchise.
Demetrious Johnson Discloses UFC Video Game Earnings
Reflecting on his initial windfall, Johnson reminisced, “The very first check I got for being in the UFC video game was $25,000. Now, a lot of you guys are like, ‘That’s it?’ but think about this. $25,000 just to be in a video game. I don’t think Ryu or Ken have ever gotten a check for $25,000.”
With subsequent releases, Johnson saw variations in his earnings, with figures like $12,500 for UFC 3 and a noteworthy $10,000 for gracing the cover of the Icon Edition.
Despite parting ways with the UFC and transitioning to ONE Championship, Johnson’s digital avatar continued to resonate with gamers, ensuring a steady stream of income. “I leave the UFC. I’m not part of the company anymore, but my character is still in the game and you guys are playing as my character. Now, the next check I get in the mail is another whopping $25,000 for being in the game and it’s absolutely amazing,” he shared.
Earnings For Video Game
For Johnson, the financial rewards are not just about the numbers but also the validation of his likeness being appreciated. “To me, it’s something where your likeness is being used and I think it’s cool that the UFC or EA keeps paying the athletes for their likeness and that people are using me,” he expressed.
In totality, ‘Mighty Mouse’ amassed over $70,000 from his gaming venture, a testament to the growing intersection of sports and digital entertainment. “Me being in the game from 2014 to 2024, I have made is $72,500,” Johnson revealed. “I think it’s amazing for me to make that kind of money without getting punched in the face.”
As Johnson continues to leave an indelible mark in both the real and virtual arenas, his journey serves as a testament to the evolving landscape where athleticism meets digital innovation.
