I was certain it would not happen and made a thread to that effect.
There was very little upside for them.
They put all their efforts into making a star and then as soon as he became a popular name outside of MMA circles they screwed themselves.
That said if I was Conor I would be very concerned about spreading out such a payday. He effectively earnt that money in one fight but would be at risk of getting screwed out of his full pay day if the UFC hit debt trouble or legal trouble.
I think an increasing equity stake would have been the best idea. Not that it would be without issues.
Why would they release him?
they wont cause Viacom would give him a blank check and do a ppv with him in Dublin.