Mike Perry is preparing for a major return to mixed martial arts as he gets ready to face Nate Diaz on May 16. The fight is part of the first MVP MMA event promoted by Jake Paul and will take place at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles. The card is expected to draw attention with multiple big names and will stream on Netflix.
Perry, who has built strong momentum through Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship, now steps into another high profile matchup. His opponent, Diaz, remains one of the most recognized figures in combat sports, which adds even more interest to the contest.
Ahead of the event, Perry spoke about the financial side of the fight and made it clear this deal stands above anything he has earned before.
“The next one is always the best one, man — and this is the next one,” Perry said. “I’ve been saying that for 20 years, I swear. The next one is the best one, and we just keep grinding and getting better.”
Mike Perry says his fight with Nate Diaz will be the best payday of his fighting career. #HelwaniShow pic.twitter.com/JwqiSR7sqx
— Jed I. Goodman © (@jedigoodman) March 17, 2026
Perry did not share the exact amount he will make, but his comments suggest this fight will surpass all of his previous paydays. That includes his time in BKFC, where he has already secured several seven figure deals, as well as his past boxing match with Jake Paul.
The official numbers are expected to be released later through the California State Athletic Commission after the event takes place. Even without a confirmed figure, the scale of the matchup and the platform behind it point to a major financial reward.
Several factors are likely contributing to this increase. Nate Diaz brings a large fan base, while Netflix adds global reach. Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions has also built a reputation for offering strong pay to fighters on its cards.
With all of this in place, Perry enters the fight in a strong position. The matchup gives him another chance to compete on a big stage while continuing to grow his profile in combat sports.
