Dana White insists that it’s full steam ahead for his involvement in one of boxing’s biggest fights – despite a rumored feud.
UFC boss White announced back in March that he would be launching TKO Boxing with Saudi Arabian supremo Turki Alalshikh. The Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority has taken over boxing in recent years, and brought White into the fold with a big money deal.
The partnership was expected to launch with the highly anticipated fight between undisputed champions Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford in Las Vegas this September. However, White`s name was conspicuously missing from Alalshikh`s recent announcements regarding the fight`s promoters and broadcasters, fueling speculation of a disagreement.
Dana White clarifies his involvement in Canelo Alvarez vs Terence Crawford
White maintains that he remains actively involved in the Canelo Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford plans, stating that an official date and venue will be announced shortly. While Alalshikh initially named White as the lead promoter in a tweet, subsequent messages from Alalshikh suggested a different setup.
Alalshikh later posted on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “We have confirmed the promoter for Canelo v Crawford will be Sela for Riyadh Season… The broadcaster we have not decided yet but the date will be Saturday 13th September. More details soon.” This followed reports from outlets like The Ring Magazine indicating DAZN PPV as the broadcaster, contrary to expectations of Netflix involvement.
However, speaking to reporters at the recent UFC 316 press conference, White projected confidence regarding his continued role. He remarked, “I’m going to tell you what’s awesome, man,” before elaborating.
Compared to the UFC world, where news spreads instantly, White contrasted the silence in boxing. He explained, “There’s a lot of f—ed up things about boxing, but they don’t say s—. I mean, nobody talks, it’s the most amazing thing. If we sign a deal I’ve got to f—ing get out my phone quick and say it because 90,000 people will be out there talking about it,
White continued, “These guys don’t talk. I’m promoting the fight. I’ll let you guys know [when or where the fight is happening] when it’s time to let you know.”
Dana White ‘can’t remember’ when he last talked to Turki Alalshikh
Despite White`s assurances of continued collaboration, his remarks hinted at a potential disconnect. When specifically asked about the discrepancy in Alalshikh`s promotional messages, White appeared uncertain about the cause.
He further admitted he couldn`t recall his most recent conversation with Alalshikh. White stated, “I don’t really know [what happened]. Listen, when we’re at work in UFC headquarters, I’m in my own little world, man. I don’t pay attention to any of that s—.
He concluded, “I know what’s going on, I know what we’re doing, I don’t really pay attention to that stuff. It doesn’t matter to me… S—, I don’t even remember the last time I talked to him [Alalshikh], but we’re good. We’re very good.”
