Boxing's Future: A UFC Takeover?
A new contender is stepping into the boxing world, and it's not just any company—it's the powerhouse behind the UFC. Zuffa Boxing is set to launch in 2026, aiming to bring UFC-style promotion to boxing. This move has sparked concerns, especially from former UFC fighter Matt Brown, who believes this could lead to a monopoly in boxing, much like what the UFC has in MMA.
The UFC's Dominance and Its Impact on Fighters
Brown points out that the UFC controls almost everything—rankings, titles, and even fighter pay. Athletes in the UFC often earn only 16 to 20 percent of the total revenue, which is much less than what players in the NFL or NBA make. This is because the UFC locks fighters into long-term contracts and has almost unchallenged control over the sport.
The Ali Act and the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act
The UFC's business model relies heavily on the Ali Act, a law that prevents promoters from managing fighters and protects athletes from unfair contracts. However, a new proposal called the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act could change this. If passed, it might allow UFC-style promotion in boxing, which Brown thinks could be bad for fighters.
Criticism of UFC CEO Dana White's Business Model
Brown also criticizes UFC CEO Dana White's famous phrases, like "you eat what you kill." He argues that fighters don't actually get what they deserve. For example, Conor McGregor might sell millions of pay-per-views, but he doesn't see most of that money. Instead, the UFC takes the lion's share.
The Future of Boxing: A Monopoly or a Fairer Sport?
While some boxing fans might hope that UFC-style promotion could fix the sport's issues, Brown believes it could make things worse. Currently, boxing promoters compete for fighters, driving up pay. But with a single entity controlling everything, fighters might end up with less.
Brown acknowledges the UFC's success but argues that its model isn't good for athletes. He compares fighters to "a bunch of fighting dogs begging for scraps." As Zuffa Boxing prepares to enter the ring, the future of boxing hangs in the balance.