Introduction of New Legislation
A new piece of legislation to modernize federal oversight of professional boxing has been introduced in Congress, spearheaded by a bipartisan duo: Rep. Brian Jack, a Republican from Georgia, and Rep. Sharice Davids, a Democrat from Kansas. Dubbed the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act, this bill aims to enhance the Professional Boxing Safety Act of 1996 with a series of strategic provisions.
Key Features of the Proposal
One of the key features of the proposal is the establishment of Unified Boxing Organizations (UBOs), which would provide an alternative regulatory structure to the existing sanctioning bodies in the sport.
This initiative is set to establish minimum compensation standards for fighters, with a proposed baseline of $150 per round alongside stipulations for improved health insurance coverage and robust anti-doping measures. At present, the boxing landscape lacks any unified minimum standards, as individual states currently set varied rules.
Concerns About the Sport
“Boxing is fading in the United States,” Rep. Jack expressed during an interview with ESPN.
He pointed out that various indicators reflect a troubling downturn in the sport, such as dwindling pay-per-view sales and the recent withdrawal of major networks like HBO and Showtime from boxing promotion. As negotiations concerning ESPN’s partnership with Top Rank Promotions near expiration, Rep. Jack emphasized that the current regulatory framework is inhibiting investment potential, advocating for a bipartisan approach to rejuvenate the sport.
Federal Oversight and Support
Notably, boxing is unique among professional sports as it falls under federal jurisdiction. If enacted, this legislation would represent the first significant federal overhaul since the Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act in 2000. Rep. Jack’s enthusiasm for the sport is matched by Rep. Davids, who has experience as a professional mixed martial artist. This bill has garnered support from important figures, including Lonnie Ali, the widow of the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali, and The Association of Boxing Commissions (ABC).
Future of Boxing Regulation
While it does not aim to displace the existing sanctioning bodies, the bill opens the door for the introduction of multiple UBOs into the boxing framework, which could include newly forming entities such as Zuffa Boxing. Earlier this year, Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority announced plans, in conjunction with TKO Group Holdings (the parent company of UFC and WWE), to launch a boxing promotion led by CEO Dana White, with their inaugural event featuring star fighters Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford set for September.
Conclusion
A TKO spokesperson praised Rep. Jack and Rep. Davids for their initiative, stating that the act offers a balanced solution that builds upon the original Ali Act, enhancing the safety and financial well-being of boxers while delivering more opportunities within the sport. This proposed legislation is anticipated to be evaluated by the House Committee on Energy and Commerce and subsequently voted on in the House of Representatives before moving to the Senate.
