Jimmy Flick: Finishes like flying armbars are what I like to do

Jimmy “The Brick” Flick got onto Dana White’s Contender Series with a 13-5 record, where he won via Arm Triangle, earning a shot in the big show. Flick’s league debut at Saturday’s UFC on ESPN+ 42 was spectacular, ending via Flying Triangle at 3:18 of Round 1, and earning a $50,000 performance bonus. 

https://twitter.com/UFC_CA/status/1340413219438006279

Making the UFC is not like getting into the NFL, where the minimum salary is $610,000. The Nevada Athletic Commission doesn’t release fighter purses, but Flick likely started at 12/12, plus Reebok money. So he made maybe $80,000. UFC fighters are contractually obligated to be offered three fights a year, but the real number, on average, is two. And each event has on average 24 or 26 competitors, with four fighters earning the extra $50k, so it can’t be counted on. And you have to back out taxes, and fees for management and training. Flick’s not rich.

So he wisely has kept his full-time job as a CNC saw operator. At the post-fight press conference, Flick said his employers were supportive of his fighting, and give him time off as necessary. He plans the use to money to reduce his work hours so he can train more, and help his wife start up her own business.

With Christmas around the corner, and I still work a full-time job, it will really help me go back to part time and then eventually, hopefully be able to quit working in 2021, said Flick. A lot of people don’t understand, the UFC does not come with a 401k and benefits, which my job does. I’m trying to keep the ball rolling from fighting to working and training as hard as I can to take care of my family.

I’m a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt. I love giving my leg and usually throwing a flying triangle. As an amateur, I threw up a head kick before and got the flying triangle. It just comes natural to me. I’m a finisher. That’s what I like to do. It doesn’t matter if I’m jumping for submissions or on top looking for submissions, I’m looking for the finish at all times.

I want to fight at least three to four times next year. I want a top 15 opponent if possible. If not, I’ll take whoever the UFC gives me but I’m chasing these top 15 opponents. The flyweight division is booming right now. I’m 4-0 this year at flyweight with all finishes. I’m looking to keep the ball rolling in 2021.

h/t Damon Martin for MMA Fighting