UFC’s Ali Act Lobbying Effort Did Not Change the Law
In 2025, UFC executives supported proposed amendments to the Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act through the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act. The proposal drew criticism from some boxing groups and lawmakers, but it was a legislative proposal; it did not amend the law or automatically change athletes’ rights.
The Muhammad Ali Act, enacted in 2000, mandates financial transparency, safeguards against exploitative contracts, and ensures independence between promoters and managers. While the law currently applies exclusively to boxing, UFC executives are seeking amendments that would allow them to implement their own ranking systems and championship belts for their newly launched TKO Boxing promotion. This move has drawn sharp criticism from fighters, fans, and industry insiders.
Michael Mazzulli, president of the Association of Boxing Commissions and Combat Sports, confirmed the UFC’s request for amendments, stating that the board of directors is working to ensure the ABC remains part of the federal law. However, many view this collaboration as a betrayal of the commission’s duty to protect athletes. Critics argue that the proposed changes could erode the protections that have safeguarded boxers for over two decades.
The controversy has reignited debates about the UFC’s business practices, with detractors pointing to the promotion’s history of monopsony-like control over fighters. The UFC’s antitrust lawsuit settlement in 2023, which revealed damning details about fighter pay and contract restrictions, has only fueled skepticism about the organization’s intentions.
Supporters of the amendments argue that the current boxing model is outdated and inefficient, citing inflated fighter purses and stalled negotiations as barriers to the sport’s growth. UFC CEO Dana White has long criticized boxing’s pay structure, claiming it prioritizes short-term profits over the sport’s future. However, critics counter that the UFC’s proposed pay scales for TKO Boxing—offering significantly lower minimum purses than traditional boxing—undermine the very protections the Ali Act was designed to uphold.
As the debate intensifies, the proposed amendments face significant hurdles, including approval from Congress. The outcome of this battle could have far-reaching implications for the future of combat sports, shaping the balance of power between promoters and athletes.
(Sources: Yahoo Sports, Sports Illustrated, Boxing Scene)
