Still, the Croatian supplied something the promotion needed: a credible threat. His experience and durability gave customers a reason to anticipate more than another quick Itauma knockout. Hrgovic helped make the fight worth watching, even if his contribution to sales remains unknown.

Now a promoter seeking to match a heavyweight against him would be paying for a title opportunity against the man who stopped Itauma. Hrgovic has every reason to charge more for that.

The value of a PPV percentage, however, depends heavily on the opponent. Against a major attraction, it might bring a substantial payment. Against a challenger with little public recognition, a larger guaranteed purse may serve him better. A share of modest sales is still a modest return.

His interview does not disclose the terms of his existing deal or show that an additional payment is owed. The repeated demands tell us what he wants at the negotiating table.

Unifications offer a chance to collect another belt and attract a larger audience, but another champion must find the deal worthwhile too. Hrgovic brings a title and considerable risk. His task now is to convince promoters that he also brings enough paying customers to justify the money he wants.