The article in brief
Kickboxing and Muay Thai champion Yohan Lidon reveals the financial realities behind his exploits in the ring.
- Impressive track record 20 world titles and 149 victories in 187 fights
- Diversification of activities boxing gym, social work, employment as a civil servant
- Kickboxing considered a "financial "bonus rather than a main salary
- The economic challenges of combat sports in France : limited audience and restricted opportunities
- Call for better recognition and promoting champions in these disciplines
Yohan Lidon, nicknamed "Le Bûcheron", is a leading figure in French combat sports. A champion of kickboxing and muay-thai, he has left his mark on the history of these disciplines with an impressive list of achievements. But beyond his exploits in the ring, there's a question that often lingers in the mind: what is the salary of Yohan Lidon ? Let's delve into the world of this unrivalled champion to understand the financial realities behind his victories.
A unique record in the world of combat sports
Yohan Lidon has built a solid reputation in the world of combat sports. His impressive career testifies to his unwavering dedication to his art:
- 20 world championship titles
- 5 French championship titles
- A record of 187 fights, including 149 wins (86 by KO)
These figures speak for themselves and place Lidon among the the most successful athletes of his generation. His victory over Cédric Doumbé in 2014 was particularly memorable, although Doumbé got his revenge in 2017. At 41, Yohan continues to fight at the highest level, proving that age is just a number for true champions.
A versatile champion
Lidon's career is not limited to the ring. He has diversified his activities, demonstrating remarkable versatility:
- Opening of a boxing gym in Salaise-sur-Sanne in 2020
- Work with young people in social centres
- Caretaker position at Saint-Priest Fort
This diversification reflects not only his commitment to his sport, but also the need for combat athletes to multiply their sources of income.
The financial reality of a kickboxing champion in France
Contrary to what you might think, the champion status doesn't always rhyme with wealth, especially in disciplines like kickboxing in France. Yohan Lidon himself says that it is almost impossible to make a living from the sport alone in France, unless you have the backing of a major sponsor.
A financial 'bonus' rather than a salary
For Lidon, boxing represents a additional income rather than a primary source. He sees the earnings from his fights as a "bonus" on top of his salary as a civil servant. This reality contrasts sharply with the glamorous image often associated with combat sports, particularly in countries like the United States where champions like Deontay Wilder can earn considerable sums.
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| Source of income | Status |
|---|---|
| Kickboxing | Additional income |
| Civil servant post | Main income |
A criticised remuneration system
Yohan Lidon is quick to point the finger at the inadequacies of the pay system in his sport. He feels that boxers are not always paid what they are worth, particularly at certain tournaments and major events. This situation raises questions about how high-level athletes are valued in French combat sports.
The financial challenges of combat sports
The case of Yohan Lidon highlights the economic challenges facing combat sports athletes in France. Unlike disciplines such as football and tennis, kickboxing and muay Thai struggle to generate sufficient income for their champions.
A limited market
Several factors explain this situation:
- A smaller audience than other sports
- Fewer sponsorship opportunities
- Limited media coverage of events
These factors contribute to creating an environment where even the most successful athletes, like Lidon, have to diversify their sources of income to ensure their financial stability. This is in stark contrast to other combat sports such as MMA, where stars like Khabib Nurmagomedov have amassed considerable fortunes.
The importance of diversification
Faced with these challenges, Yohan Lidon has adapted his strategy:
- Maintaining a stable professional activity
- Investing in your own boxing gym
- Involvement in social and educational activities
This multi-faceted approach enables him not only to ensure his financial stability but also to prepare for his post-career, a crucial aspect for any top-level athlete.
Towards greater recognition for champions
The example of Yohan Lidon raises some important questions about the status of combat sports athletes in France. Despite an exceptional track record and an exemplary career, the financial realities remain difficult. This situation calls for reflection on ways to improve the economic conditions of champions in these disciplines.
Areas for improvement could include:
- Better media coverage of kickboxing and muay-thai events
- Developing more lucrative partnerships with sponsors
- The creation of better-structured professional leagues
In the meantime, champions like Yohan Lidon continue to shine in the ring, driven by their passion and determination, rather than by the financial lure. Their achievements inspire respect and underline the importance of recognising sporting excellence at its true value, whatever the field.
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