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sports1d ago
Zuffa Boxing says it will save the sport – but the fine print shows that fighters might pay the price
- Zuffa Boxing plans to run about 12 league-style fight cards annually under a joint venture with Saudi and U.S. partners.
- Experts say proposed Ali Act amendments could allow unified boxing organizations to own rankings and titles, reshaping fighter protections.
- The Guardian cites a Zuffa Boxing contract that could bind a fighter to the company for multiple years with extensive control rights.
- Critics say the contract could require fighters to participate in promotions, sponsorships, and media without guaranteed pay for postponed or canceled bouts.
- The report notes fighters would pay for medical tests, a point of contention for labor rights advocates.
- Regulators warn that Zuffa Boxing could consolidate power, drawing comparisons to UFC’s business model.
- The Guardian reports that the contract provides broad rights to use a fighter’s identity for merchandise, games, and media.
- The article highlights concerns about long contract terms potentially extending up to six years and automatic extensions.
- The Guardian notes UFC’s antitrust settlement and suggests fighters have faced exploitation in the past.
- Industry voices question whether Zuffa Boxing’s model would erode boxing’s traditions and hurt fighter earnings.
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