Criticism of Proposed Changes to Boxing Legislation
A prominent attorney who played a vital role in crafting both the Professional Boxer Health and Safety Act and the Muhammad Ali Act has criticized recent proposed changes, claiming they mainly serve the interests of Zuffa Boxing. Patrick English, who collaborated closely with Senator John McCain in shaping these critical pieces of legislation, expressed his dismay in a statement shared with World Boxing News. English contended that the modifications to the Acts deviate significantly from their foundational goal: improving the safety and fairness for boxers.
“The sole purpose when McCain and his team crafted the Acts was to enhance the sport of boxing for its athletes, without giving undue preference to any promotional entity,”
English stated. He emphasized that unlike the original framework, the current suggested revisions appear designed explicitly to benefit one particular promotional organization, which he identified as Zuffa and its affiliates.
Concerns Over Zuffa Boxing’s Influence
This strong condemnation highlights ongoing apprehensions surrounding Zuffa Boxing’s aspirations to build a roster system akin to that of the UFC, particularly under the TKO branding. Critics argue that the new amendments are crafted to concentrate authority within a single promotion and matchmaking entity—an alarming trend noted by Olivieri, President of the World Boxing Organization (WBO). He has echoed English’s sentiments and confirmed that the WBO is currently analyzing the proposed amendments, with a formal response anticipated shortly.
I share the same concerns as my colleague Patrick English. Further updates will be forthcoming.
Olivieri remarked. The Muhammad Ali Act, which became law in 2000, was specifically implemented to safeguard boxers from unfair exploitation by enforcing contract transparency and regulating matchmaking and rankings. It aimed to curb the sweeping control that promoters often wield over fighters—something that has been criticized in relation to the UFC model.
Future Implications for Boxing
Reports suggest that the current proposals, mainly driven by interests aligned with Zuffa, could guide boxing toward a similar model, where the promoter could prioritize their advantages over the athletes’. As the legislative language circulates among political and lobbying factions, experts anticipate that revisions will be proposed later in the year. Various industry stakeholders, including sanctioning bodies and advocates for athlete rights, are expected to contribute their viewpoints as the bill approaches congressional evaluation.
About the Author
Phil Jay, a seasoned boxing journalist with over 15 years of experience, serves as Editor-in-Chief for World Boxing News, where he has been reporting on the fight landscape since 2010. Jay has covered countless major boxing events and conducted interviews with numerous world champions, offering keen insight into the intricate dynamics of combat sports.
