Dana White’s TKO Boxing league is generating significant discussion.
The announcement of a boxing league partnership between Dana White and Turki Alalshikh has received varied reactions from the combat sports world.
Some fans believe White`s involvement will revitalize boxing with innovative approaches. Conversely, others argue that the UFC`s operational model, which White is expected to implement, is incompatible with professional boxing.
Dana White Aims to Reshape Boxing with New League
In an interview with Fight Hub TV, while attending a Callum Walsh fight in New York City, Dana White discussed his strategy to `fix boxing` and the necessary changes for TKO Boxing to thrive.
“Where do you even begin? Probably by ensuring the best fighters compete against each other, that’s a starting point,” he suggested.
White remained vague about whether the first TKO event might feature a headline fight like Canelo Alvarez versus Terence Crawford. He mentioned that both he and Turki Alalshikh are in a favorable position to make significant improvements.
“My approach is quite different. Turki has existing commitments for the next year and a half. My goal is to deconstruct the sport and rebuild it from the ground up, similar to what we achieved with the UFC. So, we`re on separate paths in some ways.”
When questioned about collaborating with promoters like Oscar De La Hoya, Eddie Hearn, and Frank Warren for fighter matchups, White simply responded with a smile, “I’m unsure how it will all unfold; we’ll see.”
These remarks have provoked diverse opinions within the boxing community, with many responses expressing skepticism about the sustainability of this approach.
One fan commented, “Dana knows nothing about boxing,” while another disheartened listener added, “The more he talks, the more I wish he’d stay away from boxing.”
Eddie Hearn Warns Dana White About Boxing Challenges
The heads of UFC and Matchroom Boxing have maintained a positive professional relationship, often praising each other`s business practices.
However, with White`s entry into boxing as a potential competitor, Eddie Hearn has cautioned him about the demanding nature of the boxing industry and the need for constant vigilance.
“Boxing is the toughest business globally,” Hearn stated in a recent interview with iFL TV.
“I hope these guys are prepared for sleepless nights and constant vigilance because you won`t find stability where you can relax and expect everything to remain constant. The industry is relentlessly competitive, and I am one of those competitors,” Hearn chuckled.
Boxing legend Paulie Malignaggi recently argued that White`s independent approach, without collaboration with promoters like Hearn, could negatively impact the sport.
