TKO Group announces major boxing initiative

TKO aims to reshape boxing similarly to UFC's success.

TKO Group makes bold move into boxing with Zuffa Boxing

TKO Group Holdings, the parent company behind UFC and WWE, is set to make a significant foray into boxing. They announced a new venture named Zuffa Boxing, backed by a Saudi Arabian partnership, expected to officially launch in early 2026. TKO executives, including Mark Shapiro, described boxing as a promising opportunity for growth, believing it can become a crucial asset alongside their existing ventures. The inaugural test for this initiative occurs on September 13 with the highly anticipated fight between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford. During a financial call, Shapiro stated that TKO expects a lucrative TV deal before the official launch, with considerable interest already from major networks. The company aims to host two to three major boxing events per year, branded as superfights, further demonstrating its commitment to expanding its reach in this sport. Additionally, TKO is advocating for new legislation to create unified boxing organizations, leveraging the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act, which seeks to modernize boxing operations.

TKO Group's entry into boxing highlights a strategic pivot that could redefine the sport's landscape. By seeking to adapt a UFC-like model, the company intends to bring new operational efficiencies and promotional tactics that boxing has often lacked. Shapiro's remarks reflect a vision where market interest and promotional might converge to reinvigorate boxing. However, the introduction of the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act introduces legislative complexities and potential backlash from existing boxing establishments. This unprecedented approach brings with it a risk of political scrutiny as TKO pushes through changes to an age-old industry.

Highlights

The future of boxing may soon change dramatically under TKO's vision.