A new Guardian investigation into TKO Group Holdings is raising eyebrows and serious questions about the WWE and UFC parent companys influence in combat sports, especially when it comes to intimidating regulatory bodies and pushing controversial legislation.
Longtime boxing journalist Thomas Hauser published a comprehensive report Wednesday that zeroed in on the launch of Zuffa Boxing TKOs newest venture and the growing concerns surrounding fighter treatment and industry control. While much of the piece centers around Zuffa Boxing and its contractual parallels to UFC deals, the broader message is unmistakable: TKOs WWE-sized footprint is part of whats enabling them to throw their weight around.
Another official added, Theyre very good at instilling fear. The piece highlights how TKO is lobbying to amend the Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act legislation originally designed to protect fighters from exploitative contracts. Multiple high-profile venues including Madison Square Garden and Crypto.com Arena reportedly back the changes, as do several state athletic commissions. Hauser paints a picture of a fight world where money and fear dictate compliance.
Interestingly, while the report dives deep into the terms of Zuffa Boxing contracts including restrictive clauses on merchandise, non-exclusive perpetuity rights, and mandatory fight offers WWEs own contracts were notably not mentioned. But the implication is clear: TKOs business playbook isnt limited to MMA.
Financially, Zuffa Boxing is reportedly landing $100 million per year for 12 fight cards through a deal with Paramount Skydance a stark contrast to UFCs new domestic rights deal, which brings in $1.1 billion annually for over 40 events. Its yet another reminder of how TKO is aggressively monetizing every inch of its portfolio including WWE.
Whether WWE Superstars eventually see similar contract structures or feel the effects of TKOs broader lobbying efforts remains to be seen. But the shadows of UFCs long-standing fighter pay issues and Zuffa Boxings early moves have already drawn comparisons.
