Dana White declares war on traditional boxing in an interview. Photo: Reproduction/X
Dana White has once again caused a stir outside the world of MMA. In an interview with journalist Stephen A. Smith, the UFC president stated that he intends to directly confront the traditional model of professional boxing and end the power of entities such as the WBC, WBA, and other sanctioning organizations.
According to White, the idea is to launch a new project called Zuffa Boxing, which will operate under the TKO umbrella, with the goal of centralizing control of the fights and completely reshaping the structure of the sport.
During the conversation, Dana was direct in explaining his motivation and didn't hold back in his criticism of the current system. "I've been talking about boxing for a long time, and now is the time to put my money where my mouth is. I'm going to get rid of the sanctioning organizations. The best will fight the best. We're going to hire young talent, lots of young talent," the executive stated.
Dana White says he will get rid of boxing sanctioning bodies (WBC, WBA etc.) for Zuffa Boxing
"I'm gonna get rid of the sanctioning organizations, the best will fight the best. We're gonna sign all the young, up and coming guys."
via @stephenasmith
— Dovy🔌 (@DovySimuMMA) January 10, 2026
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The new organization's proposal is clear: eliminate multiple belts, fragmented rankings, and unattractive fights, focusing instead on direct confrontations between the top names, a model similar to what the UFC has consolidated in MMA over the last few decades.
When asked by Stephen A. Smith about the structure of the events, Dana White confirmed that the plan includes monthly cards with a defined broadcast schedule. "Yes, on Paramount+. And yes, every month," he assured.
Signings and behind-the-scenes details of Dana White's Zuffa Boxing team.
Dana White at a UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC
Despite maintaining absolute secrecy about the card for the highly anticipated UFC White House eventDana White was more open when talking about the behind-the-scenes workings of Zuffa Boxing. One of the points raised was the initial difficulty in signing big boxing stars, who are currently tied to promotions like Top Rank and PBC.
For the UFC president, however, this doesn't represent a long-term problem. "All contracts end at some point. We need to improve the product in the coming years. When these contracts end, they'll want to sign with us," he predicted.
White also made it clear that the project will not be conducted alone. According to him, Zuffa Boxing will be developed in partnership with Nick Khan and other executives linked to TKO. "We've already done some pretty big things even before the first fight. We'll start making several announcements soon," he concluded.
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