Sheffield boxing legend issues a warning to promoters about Zuffa.
Zuffa Boxing’s entry into the world of pugilism has divided people of the sport in a way that is rarely seen.
For one thing, Dana White (head of Zuffa and the UFC) made it his mission to rid boxing of its myriad world title belts and reduce each division to a single championship.
The realisation of this dream would return boxing to a state much like it was in the days of yore (or indeed, to a state much like how the UFC functions).
And despite Zuffa’s other stated intentions, it was this that became likely the primary talking point, likely because it is something that has been discussed for quite a while. A number of years before Zuffa rolled onto the scene, in fact.
For a good chunk of time now, boxing-related individuals have been complaining that four world championships is far too many. And so, this particular aspiration of Zuffa’s is not a unique one.
Yet the league’s introduction of a Zuffa Boxing title has drawn criticism from many major figures. Still, though, Zuffa’s stable continues to grow, and with very recognisable names.
Zuffa’s signing of cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia came as a massive shock, but scooping up Conor Benn was akin to a seismic event.
Now a former world champion has warned promoters that Zuffa will continue to come signing for their fighters and that they need to be prepared.
In an interview with Boxing King Media, former long-reigning cruiserweight world champion Johnny Nelson has stated, “I’m tellin’ you, if you’re a promoter here in the U.K., lock your fighters down. Lock ’em down. ‘Cause if you don’t lock ’em down and they’ve got somethin’ about ’em, they’re probably havin’ a conversation [with Zuffa] right now, ’cause I know conversations are bein’ had.”
The Sheffield legend further went on to say, “So, now the promoters have gotta be professional, be tight, be watertight, because Zuffa are coming to make some noise and ruffle some feathers.”
Citing the aforementioned examples, Nelson continued, “And look, you saw what they did with Conor Benn. You saw what they did with Opetaia, you know? So, do you think they’ve come here to create such a deal with Sky [Sports] here in the U.K. with no plan B?”
Nelson rounded out his statement with, “The plan’s there and the growth is there. I remember Dana sayin’, ‘Just ask me in 12 months’ time what we’re doin’.’ I know conversations are bein’ had.”
Want to get the latest boxing news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
