Matchroom Boxing CEO Eddie Hearn criticized Dana White’s Zuffa Boxing for offering low pay to fighters and expressed concerns about attempts to alter the Ali Act, which protects fighters.
Matchroom Boxing CEO Eddie Hearn isn’t holding back as Dana White gears up to launch Zuffa Boxing. Bold move, right?
TKO’s Mark Shapiro spilled the beans earlier this month. Zuffa’s debut show? Mark your calendars for Jan. 23, right before UFC 324 in 2026. But wait, where’s it happening? Who’s fighting? Crickets on that front.
Hearn’s not impressed with the cash offers floating around. “I was with a manager the other day,” he shared with Boxing Social. “Couldn’t believe how bad the money was.” Ouch.
This week, Hearn’s soaking up the Miami sun, prepping for the Anthony Joshua vs. Jake Paul showdown. But he’s got more on his mind—like Dana White’s plans to tweak the Ali Act.
Historically, the UFC’s been iffy about extending the Act to MMA. Now, they’re backing a new version with Saudi promoter Turki Alalshikh. Big changes ahead for boxing, folks.
Hearn’s not having it. “Why alter the Ali Act?” he asks. “It’s there to protect fighters. Respect them, protect them.” Congress battles? Nah, he’s not signing up for that.
“Look, if they want it, they’ll get it,” Hearn admits. “But come on, it’s obvious what’s happening. Fighters see it too. Still, if there’s a shot at opportunity, they’ll grab it.”