Oscar De La Hoya criticized Zuffa Boxing, accusing Dana White’s new venture of trying to alter the Muhammad Ali Act for “shady” reasons. He argued that changing the legislation would strip fighters of vital protections.
The original Ali Act safeguards boxers from exploitative contracts and ensures fair ranking systems. The proposed Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act seeks to form unified boxing bodies with independent titles and rankings, similar to the UFC model.
The California State Athletic Commission unanimously endorsed the proposal, while the Association of Professional Boxing Commissions strongly opposed it. De La Hoya warned that such changes would damage boxing’s integrity and leave athletes exposed to manipulation.
Promoter Defends Fighters’ Rights and Development
De La Hoya condemned Zuffa’s approach, accusing it of prioritizing profit over fighter welfare. “If you want to do right by the sport, you don’t eliminate the law protecting fighters,” he said.
He emphasized that removing fighter protections would make athletes vulnerable to exploitation. “The fighter is the product,” he added. “Without that clause, they lose their safety net.”
De La Hoya contrasted his methods with White’s “Contender Series” approach, which pits rising fighters against each other too soon. He said this system undermines development and treats boxing like a spectacle instead of a sport.
De La Hoya Promises Real Boxing, Not Reality TV
De La Hoya said he remains committed to nurturing champions through careful matchmaking and long-term investment. “I build fighters step by step—the same way I built Canelo, Ryan Garcia, and others,” he said.
He criticized Zuffa Boxing’s structure as entertainment-driven. “This feels more like a reality show or game show, not genuine boxing,” he said. “I’m a serious promoter who develops world champions, not one who eliminates prospects early for ratings.”
De La Hoya called on boxing regulators to reject any legislation that weakens fighter protection, vowing to defend athletes’ rights and preserve the sport’s traditional values.
