RIYADH – In a move set to transform the world of professional boxing, the proposed “Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act” is gaining momentum in the US Congress, potentially paving the way for a revolutionary new era spearheaded by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). The legislation, designed to modernize the sport’s outdated regulatory framework, is a critical step for the launch of Zuffa Boxing, a powerful new venture backed by the PIF and TKO Group Holdings, the global entertainment powerhouse behind the UFC and WWE.
This groundbreaking initiative aligns perfectly with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to position the Kingdom as a global leader in sports and entertainment. The PIF has been a driving force in this strategy, with the Saudi sports sector’s market value projected to soar from $8 billion to an impressive $22.4 billion by 2030. This growth is already evident in the PIF’s significant investments, including a 75% stake in four of the nation’s premier football clubs and major international acquisitions like English Premier League club Newcastle United.
Zuffa Boxing, as an innovative “Unified Boxing Organization” (UBO), promises to bring a structured, modern approach to a sport long criticized for its fragmented nature. While the original 2000 Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act aimed to prevent exploitation, its critics argue it has hindered growth and innovation. The new Revival Act seeks to establish clear, nationwide standards for boxer compensation and safety, including minimum per-round payments and enhanced insurance. This framework is designed to create a more stable and lucrative environment for fighters, from emerging talent to established champions.
The partnership with TKO Group Holdings is a game-changer. TKO, with a market capitalization exceeding $32 billion and annual revenues of nearly $3 billion, brings unparalleled expertise in combat sports promotion and management. By applying a proven model similar to the highly successful UFC, Zuffa Boxing is expected to streamline the sport, offering fighters clear career paths and lucrative opportunities. This is a significant advantage in a sport where fighter pay can be inconsistent.
While some have pointed to a difference in fighter pay percentages between the UFC and other major sports leagues (UFC fighters historically earn around 16-20% of revenue compared to over 50% in leagues like the NBA), Zuffa Boxing’s model offers consistency and a direct line to significant global exposure. By creating a unified hierarchy of rankings and belts, the venture will eliminate the confusion of multiple sanctioning bodies, ensuring the best fighters are competing for the most prestigious titles. This not only benefits the athletes but also creates a more compelling product for fans worldwide.
The Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to sports is clear, and the formation of Zuffa Boxing is a bold statement of intent. By fostering a new, dynamic structure for the sport of boxing, Saudi Arabia and TKO are not just modernizing the sport—they are building its future, setting a new global standard for athletic excellence and commercial success.