WASHINGTON, D.C. — The future of boxing may be headed for a major shakeup. The Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act took a significant step forward this week, passing the U.S. House of Representatives by voice vote and moving on to the Senate.
If approved there, the bill will head to President Donald Trump for final approval. The Ali Revival Act is designed to overhaul boxing governance potentially reshaping:
- Fighter protections
- Promotional structures
- Sanctioning body influence
The bill has gained powerful backing, particularly from TKO Group Holdings, the parent company of the UFC, WWE, and Zuffa Boxing. That support has led many in the sport to believe its passage is inevitable.
Oscar De La Hoya: “It’s Not Inevitable”
Not everyone agrees. Oscar De La Hoya has emerged as one of the most vocal opponents of the bill and he’s preparing to take his fight to Washington. “It still has to pass through the Senate,” De La Hoya said. “I’ve had conversations with members… I’m going to be there.”
De La Hoya criticized how the bill advanced through the House, calling the process: “Sneaky” “Under the radar” He also expressed frustration with the lack of public attention surrounding the legislation. “It feels like I’m fighting this fight alone,” he added.
TKO and Zuffa’s Growing Influence
At the center of the controversy is TKO’s push into boxing.
Backed by UFC CEO Dana White and Saudi financier Turki Alalshikh, Zuffa Boxing has already:
- Promoted multiple events in Las Vegas
- Introduced its own championship belt system
- Positioned itself as an alternative to traditional boxing structures
The long-term vision appears to be a centralized, one-belt system, similar to the UFC model.
Clash With Boxing’s Traditional System
That vision directly challenges boxing’s established organizations:
- WBA
- WBC
- WBO
- IBF
Many fighters, however, remain loyal to the traditional titles.
For example:
- Jai Opetaia has expressed interest in unifying belts
- Richardson Hitchins is reportedly cautious about risking his title status
Fighters want legacy. Not just new belts.
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Robert LaMar is a Deputy Editor for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @RobertLaMar26
