BOXXER promoter Ben Shalom has launched a sharp attack against Zuffa Boxing, claiming the American organization threatens the traditional structure of British boxing. Shalom accused the venture of prioritizing shareholder profits over fighter welfare and domestic promotional growth.
Speaking to talkSPORT Boxing, Shalom expressed severe reservations about Zuffa attempting to establish a separate ecosystem within the sport. He argued that the company’s operational model risks leaving fighters entirely dependent on a single promotion for championship opportunities. This setup, he argued, threatens small-hall shows, independent operators, and the traditional progression path through area, British, and world titles.
Shalom delivered a blunt assessment of Zuffa’s entry into the British market. “I’m disgusted by the organization. I can’t say anything more than being disgusted. They don’t care about boxing. They don’t care about British fighters. They don’t care about the sport. They care about profitability for their shareholders and ripping the sport from this country, changing it, packaging it up and excluding everyone else,” stated Shalom.
In response to the perceived threat, the BOXXER head called on the domestic governing body to intervene. He urged the British Boxing Board of Control to “get a backbone” and stand firm against Zuffa’s expansion plans, suggesting the UK government would support the regulator in protecting local boxing infrastructure.
The timing of these statements has drawn scrutiny from industry observers. TalkSPORT presenter Simon Jordan pointed out that British promoters had previously welcomed major foreign investors like Turki Alalshikh before Alalshikh aligned with Zuffa. Jordan also suggested that Shalom’s criticism only intensified once fighters contracted to BOXXER started appearing on rival broadcasting platforms.
Shalom dismissed those claims, insisting that contractual disputes are separate issues to be handled through the courts. Yet the broader conflict highlights an ongoing power struggle across the sport. Established promoters now face direct competition from an aggressive rival seeking total control over fighter contracts, event production, and title distribution.
