Congress Proposes Major Overhaul of Boxing Regulations

A bipartisan bill named the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act has been introduced in Congress, marking the first update to federal boxing regulations in 25 years and aiming to rejuvenate the sport. Sponsored by Reps. Brian Jack and Sharice Davids, the legislation would allow the formation of Unified Boxing Organizations (UBOs) that could independently manage rankings, titles, and events, similar to the UFC's model, while not replacing existing sanctioning bodies. The bill mandates a national minimum pay of $150 per round and requires at least $25,000 in health coverage per fight, along with national anti-doping standards. It is supported by Muhammad Ali’s widow Lonnie Ali, the Association of Boxing Commissions, and TKO Group Holdings, which plans to launch its own boxing promotion. The reforms are intended to provide boxers with more options and protections, addressing industry decline and broadcaster exits. However, critics caution that bypassing current protections could harm fighters.