Dana White Launches Zuffa Boxing with Saudi Backing
UFC CEO Dana White is making a bold move into the boxing world. He is launching a new promotion called Zuffa Boxing. The venture receives strong backing from TKO Group, the parent company of the UFC. It also enjoys financial support from Saudi Arabia. The first Zuffa Boxing event is scheduled for January 23.
Concerns Rise Over Fighter Earnings and Saudi Influence
Antonio McMillion, a Forbes Next 1000 Honoree, recently voiced serious concerns. He worries about the long-term impact on boxer earnings. McMillion believes the new Zuffa Boxing structure may reduce the massive purses fighters have grown accustomed to. While Zuffa Boxing aims to fix long-standing issues in boxing, McMillion feels the financial landscape could tighten soon.
McMillion shared his thoughts on social media platform X. He suggested Saudi Arabia is slowly redirecting its funding away from traditional boxing promotions. In his view, support increasingly leans toward projects connected to TKO Group and Dana White.
He explained that Saudi Arabia appears to be reducing backing for boxing events not tied to TKO. McMillion noted some Saudi-funded fights are still scheduled, but these could be among the last of their kind. This gradual shift could create problems for fighters used to unusually high purses. According to him, inflated paydays have changed expectations. Without that level of funding, the market could become unstable.
Saudi Funding Shift and Market Sustainability
McMillion pointed to specific examples like Tyson Fury's recent fights. He mentioned other blockbuster matchups made possible largely due to Saudi backing. In his opinion, those purses were not sustainable long term. Saudi investment is not disappearing entirely, McMillion added. However, it may be redirected toward Dana White's boxing plans rather than the sport's biggest traditional promoters.
Later, McMillion clarified his comments. He stressed Saudi Arabia is not leaving boxing suddenly. He emphasized the shift is gradual. McMillion explained he was sharing an opinion, not reporting news. He also said he does not deal in exaggeration or attention-seeking claims.
Potential Impact on Fighter Purses and Signings
If McMillion's view proves accurate, Zuffa Boxing may not offer the massive paydays seen in recent years. Fighters who join the promotion are unlikely to command elite-level purses. They would need major star power to secure top earnings. Big-name boxers may hesitate to sign without strong financial guarantees.
Zuffa Boxing Moves Forward with First Event
Despite the ongoing debate, Zuffa Boxing is moving forward with its plans. The first event will take place at the UFC APEX facility. Undefeated Irish prospect Callum Walsh will headline the card. He faces veteran Carlos Ocampo. Dana White praised the matchup, highlighting Ocampo's experience and Walsh's unbeaten record. White described the card as an exciting start. He promised an action-packed night for boxing fans.
