MacDonald: I look up to McGregor when it comes to business

Known for his stoic demeanor, UFC welterweight contender Rory MacDonald has been vocal when it comes to the topic of fighter pay.

MacDonald has been open about pursuing free agency when his current contract is up and he was one of the fighters to show their support for Conor McGregor's current standoff with the UFC.

The 26-year-old Canadian elaborated on his financial concerns in a recent interview with the Fight Network.

"I look up to (Conor McGregor) in that sense," said MacDonald, according to Jed Meshew of MMA Fighting. "There's a lot to be learned from his stance and sticking up for himself. Getting what he's worth ... Not just accepting what's thrown at you. Standing up for yourself.

"That's the thing martial artists aren't used to. You've got to really stick up for yourself and be a tough businessman when it's time for negotiations."

Now that MacDonald has a daughter, he's looking for more than the bare necessities when the time comes to talk business with the UFC.

Despite his high ranking and the critical acclaim he's received for his performances, MacDonald has yet to prove that he can headline a big money UFC card. He sees the potential for growth given that he is the most famous Canadian fighter not named Georges St-Pierre.

"I want big money fights because first and foremost I think I'm worth it," said MacDonald. "I think I bring a lot to the table, I think I bring a lot of viewers. I think I'm the guy in the Canadian market right now, and I think that is a huge factor that is forgotten in some negotiations, but you know, we're gonna see how it plays out."