Dana White’s Boxing Partner Turki Alalshikh Ropes In Muhammad Ali To Defend New League Against Lack of History Criticism

Dana White and Turki Alalshikh

Legacy is what makes any sport thrive—just look at the NBA, which became a global powerhouse thanks to decades of history and iconic moments. That same idea has sparked criticism of Dana White and Turki Alalshikh’s new boxing league, with some pointing out that it lacks the kind of legacy that makes a promotion truly special. But Turki didn’t waste time firing back, reminding critics that the Ring Magazine belt has over 100 years of history, carried by legends like Muhammad Ali and Joe Louis.

On a recent episode of The Ariel Helwani Show, a UFC analyst questioned whether TKO made the right call by teaming up with Ring Magazine instead of more established bodies like the WBA or WBC. He pointed out that while the UFC has its own legacy, TKO lacks the deep history that organizations like the WBA, with over a century in the game, bring to the table—along with the iconic names tied to those titles, from Muhammad Ali to Floyd Mayweather.

In response, Alalshikh backed the partnership, reminding everyone that Ring Magazine’s belt carries just as much prestige. He highlighted its 103-year history and the legendary fighters who held it, including Joe Louis, Rocky, and Ali himself. In his words, “We have a belt … it is only 103 years old. It is the same belt Rocky won and Joe Louis and even Muhammad Ali who you mention.”

Dana White Shuts Down The Idea Of MMA Crossover Fights At New Boxing League

Dana White

Dana White

Ahead of the start of the boxing league, White made it clear there would be no crossover fights between MMA fighters and boxers in the new TKO boxing league. He suggests that while some fighters might wanting to enter in boxing, he has no intention of allowing such matchups. The focus, according to White, will remain strictly on traditional boxing, without mixing in MMA athletes.

It will definitely be interesting to see how the matchups unfold in the boxing league and whether it can gain the same momentum as the UFC or other Dana White ventures. The potential for growth is there, but it’ll come down to the right fighters, exciting bouts, and strong promotion to make it as successful as his other ventures.