Full Breakdown
Dana White's Ambitious Plans for Zuffa Boxing: Targeting Terence Crawford and Oleksandr Usyk
1/22/2026, 6:29:55 AM
Dana White's Vision for Zuffa Boxing
Dana White, the president of UFC and co-founder of Zuffa Boxing, is actively pursuing high-profile signings to establish his new boxing promotion as a significant player in the sport. Following the inaugural event featuring Terence Crawford and Canelo Alvarez in September 2025, White aims to build momentum by recruiting top talent, including Crawford and heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Terence Crawford's Retirement and White's Recruitment Efforts
Terence Crawford, who retired with an undefeated record of 42-0 after defeating Canelo Alvarez, has caught White's attention. White believes Crawford's retirement was premature and is working to convince him to return to the ring. "One hundred percent [Crawford is an all-time great]," White stated, expressing his desire for Crawford to continue fighting. White's team is optimistic about negotiating a deal with Crawford, emphasizing his marketability and skill set as key reasons for a potential comeback.
Oleksandr Usyk's Potential Move to Zuffa Boxing
In addition to Crawford, White is in discussions with Oleksandr Usyk, the former undisputed heavyweight champion. Usyk's team director, Sergey Lapin, confirmed ongoing dialogue with Zuffa Boxing, stating, "There is contact, there is dialogue, and interest exists." Usyk, who became a free agent after parting ways with K2 Promotions, is considering his options as he looks to conclude his boxing career on a high note. Lapin praised White's promotional abilities, likening his impact on boxing to his success in transforming MMA into a global phenomenon.
The Impact of Zuffa Boxing's Expansion
Zuffa Boxing, founded in June 2025, aims to reshape the boxing landscape by signing elite fighters and organizing high-profile events. The promotion has already secured Jai Opetaia, the IBF cruiserweight champion, and is actively pursuing other top talents. White's aggressive recruitment strategy reflects his ambition to create a boxing promotion that rivals established entities by focusing on a single champion per weight class and enhancing the overall event experience.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite White's enthusiasm, there are skeptics regarding Zuffa Boxing's ability to make a significant impact in the boxing world. Critics question whether White can replicate his UFC success in a different combat sport, especially given the complexities of boxing's promotional landscape. Additionally, some boxing purists express concerns about the potential commercialization of the sport under White's leadership.
What's Next for Zuffa Boxing?
As Zuffa Boxing prepares for its next events, the focus will be on finalizing deals with Crawford and Usyk. White's team is expected to ramp up negotiations in the coming months, with hopes of announcing significant matchups that could elevate the promotion's profile. The boxing community is closely watching these developments, as the outcomes could reshape the competitive landscape in professional boxing.
Verbatim Quotes
- “One hundred percent [Crawford is an all-time great],” — Dana White, UFC President
- “There is contact, there is dialogue, and interest exists” — Sergey Lapin, Usyk’s Team Director
White's ambitious plans for Zuffa Boxing signal a new chapter in his career, as he seeks to merge his promotional expertise with the world of boxing, potentially altering the sport's future trajectory.
