Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act Passes House, Aims to Revitalize the Sport
The Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act officially passed a vote in the United States House of Representatives on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. The act, which fundamentally changes the structure of professional boxing, passed with a voice vote and now heads to the Senate for consideration .
Building on Existing Boxing Regulations
The Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act amends the Professional Boxing Safety Act of 1996. This 1996 legislation was later enhanced by the Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act, often referred to as the “Ali Act,” which was enacted in 2000. The Ali Act provided safeguards for fighters, protecting them from coercive promoter tactics and preventing conflicts of interest by prohibiting managers from simultaneously acting as promoters .
Introducing Unified Boxing Organizations (UBOs)
A foundational concept of the “revival” bill is the creation of Unified Boxing Organizations (UBOs). These organizations would serve as alternatives to the current major sanctioning bodies (WBA, WBO, WBC, IBF) that control boxing championships. UBOs would have the authority to establish their own rankings and crown their own champions .
TKO and Zuffa Boxing’s Support
The establishment of UBOs is a key reason for the enthusiastic support of TKO, the parent company of UFC and WWE, for this legislation. The UBO model is central to TKO’s plans for its new Zuffa Boxing promotion, allowing it to operate similarly to UFC .
Enhanced Fighter Protections and Compensation
The “revival” bill also establishes minimum purse amounts, guaranteeing fighters at least $150 per scheduled round. It mandates a national minimum of $25,000 for health coverage for injuries sustained during a fight. These minimums exceed those currently in place in many states, some of which have no minimum requirements at all .
Congressional Support and Future Outlook
“The House of Representatives made history today by passing by voice vote landmark boxing legislation that will revive one of America’s greatest sports in the name of one of America’s greatest athletes,” said Congressman Brian Jack (R-GA-03) in a press release following the bill’s passage. “Professional boxing is the only sport regulated by Congress and ambiguity in current law — adopted over a quarter century ago — has adversely affected boxers and stifled investment. The Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act strengthens safety protections for boxers, improves the quality of life for boxers, and establishes a framework for innovation within the sport to flourish.”
The bill was co-sponsored by Congresswoman Sharice Davids (D-KS-03), and also received support from the Association of Boxing Commissions and Lonnie Ali, wife of the late boxing legend Muhammad Ali .
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