Dana White, the UFC honcho, continues to build a new “base” after facing relentless scrutiny regarding proposed amendments to the Muhammad Ali Act. Supported by TKO, which owns UFC, WWE, and now Zuffa Boxing, a “revival act” plans to establish a Unified Boxing Organization – a body working independently with its own rankings, titles, and belts, mirroring the UFC’s current model. However, this move has garnered significant criticism.
Especially considering the UFC’s $375 million antitrust settlement, concerns linger about a single entity monopolizing the careers of fighters and its potential impact on the sport’s future. Yet, Dana White and TKO’s initiative has garnered strong endorsement. The unanimous support received from the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) is a prime example. Now, even figures from boxing’s old guard appear enthusiastic about what White and his team are doing in boxing.
Boxing Kingdom shares excerpts from the comments of Mike Tyson’s erstwhile trainer, Teddy Atlas. Atlas praises Dana White for his transformative impact on MMA and the UFC, stating, “In a short period of time, Dana has taken MMA, and he has made the UFC into a huge brand. He gives the fans what they want, the best against the best.”
Atlas adds, “So, a guy like that. He’s got my backing that he will do with boxing what he did with the UFC—make it good for the fans. He will make it good for the sport.”
This isn’t the first time Atlas has expressed his support for Dana White. Months ago, during an interview with MMA Knockout, he emphasized White’s potential for boxing, saying, “I love Dana White. I love what he’s done with the UFC…I love his no-nonsense approach. When you say rework it [the Ali Act], I don’t know what that means, but I’ll tell you what it means to Teddy… I want to see it get better.”
Despite the support of figures like Atlas, doubts regarding White and their intentions to modify the Ali Act will likely persist.
Even those outside the boxing world express caution regarding the proposed act’s functionality for athletes considering a crossover from MMA to boxing for increased earning opportunities. Dan Hardy, a former fighter and now MMA insider, raised concerns about Tom Aspinall’s rumored plans to transition to 16 oz gloves, stating, “I feel like this is partly the reason why the Ali revival act is coming through, because it will allow perks, which takes away the temptation for the fighters to go somewhere else and make actual money.” His and others’ apprehensions stem from White’s past statements expressing negativity towards allowing UFC fighters to compete in the ring.
Dana White has clarified that, barring the introduction of the UBOs, nothing will change within the Ali Act. “Not one word is going to be changed. Not one thing. “There’s just going to be an add-on to the Muhammad Ali Act,” he stated on the 3 Knockdown Rule.
Amidst these uncertain times, receiving approval from one of boxing’s greatest trainers represents a significant victory. The coming days will reveal further developments in this ongoing situation.
What’s your take on Teddy Atlas’ opinion and Dana White’s boxing entry?