USA Boxing has pulled its backing from the proposed Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act, a significant legislative push championed by TKO Group and Dana White’s Zuffa Boxing. The withdrawal, disclosed mere days ago, represents a substantial setback for a bill aiming to fundamentally reshape the American boxing landscape and potentially consolidate power under TKO-affiliated entities.
Previously, USA Boxing had offered tentative support, with TKO executives engaging in discussions and attending the amateur body's national championships. This evolving situation now leaves the legislation, which has already drawn considerable skepticism from within the boxing fraternity, facing renewed scrutiny.
Objections Surface as Bill Faces Congressional Scrutiny
The proposed act, designed to mirror structures seen in mixed martial arts where organizations manage their own rankings, award titles, and stage events under a singular banner, has been met with apprehension. Critics suggest the legislation could grant TKO-backed ventures considerable leverage over the sport.
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"The bipartisan bill would reshape the boxing landscape in the United States, and is critical for what plans the TKO Group and Dana White-backed Zuffa Boxing have within the sport."
Sources close to the situation indicate that USA Boxing's initial correspondence was sent without a formal board-approved position. This prompted directors to re-evaluate and formally distance the organization from its prior endorsement, effectively neutralizing its stated backing. While Congress continues its deliberations, the removal of USA Boxing's support could heavily influence the bill's trajectory.
Fighters and Regulators Left in the Dark
Concerns also extend to a perceived lack of transparency surrounding the bill's development. Reports suggest that boxers and athletic commissions were not adequately consulted, despite assurances that they would be kept informed.
"Why wouldn’t you talk to athletes? And if you’re a regulator, you’re there to protect athletes, right? … We can’t say for sure whether the Ali Revival Act would be good or bad for boxing."
The bill reportedly includes provisions that would allow TKO to establish its own rankings and championship belts for its burgeoning boxing league, a model similar to the UFC's operations. This aspect has fueled accusations that the legislation represents "a power grab" aimed at replicating the UFC's dominance within mixed martial arts.
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Broader Opposition Emerges
The withdrawal of USA Boxing follows similar hesitations from other bodies. The California State Athletic Commission (CSAC), after facing significant public backlash, has also rescinded its initial support.
"Vocal pushback has forced the California State Athletic Commission to reconsider its backing of TKO’s attack on boxing."
The CSAC has since established a subcommittee to conduct a more thorough investigation of the bill before any potential vote. Despite these challenges, the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act has garnered support from some prominent figures, including Lonnie Ali, widow of the legendary boxer, and former champion Mike Tyson. The act itself, officially named the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act, aims to modernize boxing's governance structure.