The news of the Muhammad Ali Act changes has not gone down well with boxing fans, but Dana White has hit back at those critics in support of progressing the sport.
‘The Sweet Science’ is one of the oldest sports, with two men slugging it out to see who triumphs. Since then, boxing has evolved into one of the most-watched and most beloved spectacles on the planet, but UFC CEO White believes there are many more advancements to be made.
Responding to those critiquing his views, Dana White spoke out, claiming that no changes would be made to the Muhammad Ali Act. Instead, he revealed his big visions for where the sport could be in the future.
“Well, let’s be clear. There will be zero changes to the Muhammad Ali Act,” White said. “Not one word will be changed in the Muhammad Ali Act.”
“We’re going to add on to it so that guys who, you know, guys being fighters that want a fight under the Muhammad Ali Act, exactly the way it is, will have that opportunity to do that.”
“Or, you can bet on me and fight with me under our version of the Muhammad Ali Act.”
“That thing’s been blown a lot out of proportion, and I get it. I knew people were going to freak out because that is what people do.”
Related: Jake Paul believes changes to Muhammad Ali Act would ‘100 percent’ damage boxing
White continued, stating that both the Muhammad Ali Act and promoters have hindered boxing’s progress.
“The Muhammad Ali Act was put in place with all good intentions, but I think that it’s held the business back.”
“All these guys that have been involved in boxing for a long time, the promoters, they just don’t think big enough. I think much bigger than any of them do, no matter how bad they all want to compete with me.”
With aid from Turki Alalshikh, both Dana White and TKO Group Holdings launched their first Zuffa Boxing event, and it was a big one.
The team combined to showcase Canelo Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford. Despite it being the first of many shows under Dana White and TKO’s guidance, it was a huge success.
Alongside the additions to the Muhammad Ali Act, big changes are approaching for the sport of boxing.
Dana White is asked about the Muhammad Ali Act:
“The Muhammad Ali Act was put in place with all good intentions, but I think it’s held the business back.
The promoters don’t think big enough. I think much bigger than any of them do.”
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