Story perspectives

De La Hoya Fights Ali Act Repeal at Senate

4/24/2026

Summary

De La Hoya Opposes

Senate held an Ali Act hearing where Oscar De La Hoya opposed repeal.
De La Hoya said the bill guarantees fighters 100 % protection for 26 years, names Zuffa as the beneficiary, and called the hearing pre-decided.
Boxer Nico Ali Walsh, the act’s namesake grandson, warned rules could add testing while stripping fighters of money and rights and urged the Senate to keep the Ali Act and improve safety without harming interests.

Summary

Zuffa Boxing Funded

Zuffa Boxing, backer of the Unified Boxing Organizations, is fully funded by Saudi investors, prompting Oscar De La Hoya to call it “sportswashing” like LIV Golf.
Senator Ted Cruz, chair of the hearing, warned that the legislation is driven by “a crap ton more money,” emphasizing lucrative incentives.
Andrew Zimbalist, a sports economist at Smith College, warned that centralized Unified Boxing Organizations could tighten control over fighter earnings and cut high purses.

Summary

Nick Khan Highlights

The U.S. House passed the Ali Act amendments unanimously, increasing pressure on the Senate.
Nick Khan said FOX, ESPN, Showtime, HBO, NBC, ABC and CBS have left boxing, showing waning commercial appeal.
Nick Khan noted the World Boxing Council recognizes 163 champions across 18 weight classes, confusing fans.
Nick Khan argued a unified governing body would improve medical protections, financial stability and create a championship pathway.

History

Historical Context

The Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act, enacted in 2000, aimed to safeguard boxers' rights, addressing long-standing issues of athlete welfare in professional boxing. Oscar De La Hoya noted its comprehensive protection for fighters over 26 years. Current debates about centralized control and "sportswashing," particularly regarding Zuffa's Saudi funding, echo historical tensions between profit motives and the safety of athletes in the sport.

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De La Hoya Opposes

Senate held an Ali Act hearing where Oscar De La Hoya opposed repeal.
De La Hoya said the bill guarantees fighters 100 % protection for 26 years, names Zuffa as the beneficiary, and called the hearing pre-decided.
Boxer Nico Ali Walsh, the act’s namesake grandson, warned rules could add testing while stripping fighters of money and rights and urged the Senate to keep the Ali Act and improve safety without harming interests.

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