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		<title>James Prince Breaks Silence on Shakur Stevenson&#8217;s Zuffa Boxing Departure</title>
		<link>https://2thesports.com/james-prince-breaks-silence-on-shakur-stevensons-zuffa-boxing-departure/</link>
					<comments>https://2thesports.com/james-prince-breaks-silence-on-shakur-stevensons-zuffa-boxing-departure/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Muhammad Imran Khan]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 24 Oct 2026 02:49:36 +0000</pubDate>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://2thesports.com/james-prince-breaks-silence-on-shakur-stevensons-zuffa-boxing-departure/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[The manager of the pound-for-pound star has cited a failure to honour contractual agreements as the primary reason for the fighter's sudden exit from the promotion.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="wp-block-paragraph">James &quot;J&quot; Prince, the longtime manager of Shakur Stevenson, has publicly addressed the fighter&#039;s recent departure from Dana White&#039;s Zuffa Boxing. The comments, made on Friday, mark the first time the camp has spoken in detail following the announcement of the split earlier this week.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Prince stated that the decision to leave the promotion stemmed from a fundamental breakdown in professional trust. He emphasised that the team prioritises working with partners who maintain their commitments, noting that the inability to secure agreed-upon bouts led to the termination of their relationship.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The manager specifically pointed to failed negotiations for a high-profile fight against Devin Haney as a turning point. According to Prince, despite having a contract in place that outlined purse structures, the promotion struggled to finalise a suitable opponent for the WBO super lightweight champion.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Prince alleged that the negotiations for the Haney fight were sabotaged at the eleventh hour. He claimed that while initial terms were set for a 145-pound catchweight, the opposing camp shifted requirements to the welterweight limit of 147 pounds, effectively stalling the process.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">&quot;We want to move forward with relationships and situations where people honor their word and keep their word,&quot; Prince told FightHubTV. He added that the team felt too much time was invested in pursuing a fight that ultimately did not materialise.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Stevenson, who signed with Zuffa Boxing in July, had been expected to compete across the 135 to 147-pound divisions. However, difficulties in finalising matchups at the 140-pound limit meant the fighter&#039;s immediate goals became misaligned with the promotion&#039;s strategic plans.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Addressing reports that Stevenson had turned down a $7 million offer to face Jose &quot;Rayo&quot; Valenzuela in January, Prince vehemently denied that such a discussion ever took place. He dismissed the figure as inaccurate and maintained that the focus remained on other targets.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The departure was initially described as a mutual decision. Since the announcement, Stevenson has engaged with public commentary regarding the promotion, including sharing criticism from rival promoter Eddie Hearn regarding Zuffa Boxing&#039;s operational challenges in the sport.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Devin Haney, for his part, has refuted claims that he was unwilling to meet the catchweight requirements. Haney suggested that the breakdown occurred due to additional demands, including a rehydration clause, which he stated he was not prepared to accept.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The situation highlights the ongoing complexities surrounding Zuffa Boxing&#039;s entry into the professional boxing landscape. The promotion has faced scrutiny from industry figures regarding its ability to secure and promote top-tier talent effectively since its inception.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Stevenson remains one of the most highly regarded fighters in the sport, currently holding the WBO super lightweight title. His status as a pound-for-pound contender ensures that his next career move will be closely monitored by the boxing community.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As it stands, both parties have moved on from the agreement. Stevenson is now a free agent, while Zuffa Boxing continues to navigate its roster and promotional strategy following the loss of one of its most prominent signings.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The failure to deliver a fight for Stevenson during his tenure with the organisation has been a major talking point in recent days. Industry analysts suggest that the inability to match such a high-calibre athlete reflects broader challenges within the promotional structure.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Prince indicated that the team is now looking toward future opportunities that align with their expectations. He reiterated that the focus remains on securing meaningful bouts that reflect Stevenson&#039;s standing in the sport.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">With the matter now addressed by the management, the focus shifts to where Stevenson will continue his career. His track record and championship status make him a significant asset for any major promotional entity looking to bolster its stable.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The boxing world will continue to watch how Zuffa Boxing adapts to these developments. The promotion&#039;s recent activity has been marked by both high-profile signings and departures, reflecting the volatile nature of the current boxing business environment.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">For Stevenson, the priority remains active competition. Having spent months without a bout under the Zuffa banner, the fighter is reportedly eager to return to the ring as soon as a suitable arrangement can be finalised.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The breakdown of the Stevenson-Zuffa relationship serves as a reminder of the importance of clear communication in high-stakes negotiations. Both sides have now provided their perspectives, leaving the future of the fighter as the primary subject of speculation.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As the dust settles, the industry remains focused on the broader implications for the sport. The departure of a fighter of Stevenson&#039;s calibre is a notable development that will likely influence future promotional strategies and fighter-manager relationships.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">No further details have been provided regarding potential new promotional homes for Stevenson. The management team has indicated they will take their time to ensure the next step is the right one for the fighter&#039;s career trajectory.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<title>Shakur Stevenson Departs Zuffa Boxing As Free Agent</title>
		<link>https://2thesports.com/shakur-stevenson-departs-zuffa-boxing-as-free-agent/</link>
					<comments>https://2thesports.com/shakur-stevenson-departs-zuffa-boxing-as-free-agent/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Muhammad Imran Khan]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 20 Oct 2026 08:18:42 +0000</pubDate>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://2thesports.com/shakur-stevenson-departs-zuffa-boxing-as-free-agent/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Four-weight world champion Shakur Stevenson has left Zuffa Boxing after three months without stepping into the ring for the promotion.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Shakur Stevenson has officially announced his departure from Zuffa Boxing, confirming that he has successfully requested and been granted his immediate release from the organisation without fighting a single bout under its banner. The multiple-weight world champion, who is twenty-nine years of age, chose to reveal the decision through a detailed video statement published on his official YouTube channel over the weekend, sending shockwaves through the professional boxing landscape just months after joining the heavily backed promotional outfit.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The prominent American fighter originally signed a high-profile deal with the Saudi Arabian-backed boxing enterprise spearheaded by UFC parent company TKO and Dana White back in July. His arrival was widely heralded as one of the major coups for the nascent promotional vehicle as it attempted to establish a major footprint in the sport, bringing in an undefeated elite operator with a reputation for tactical brilliance and defensive mastery inside the squared circle.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">However, despite high expectations from supporters and industry observers alike, the partnership has dissolved prematurely after three months of frustration and unfulfilled scheduling promises. Stevenson explained that discussions regarding a lucrative matchup against WBO welterweight champion Devin Haney ultimately broke down completely, leaving him sidelined and unable to secure the elite-level bouts that had been promised to him upon signing the promotional agreement.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Reflecting on the situation during his online broadcast, the New Jersey native expressed profound disappointment regarding his prolonged inactivity since joining the promotional stable. He noted that he had spent approximately eight continuous weeks locked away in intensive training camps, meticulously preparing for high-profile encounters that were repeatedly promised by management but ultimately failed to materialise on schedule.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Despite the frustration of spending months on the sidelines during the prime years of his athletic career, the talented boxer insisted that there were no lingering hard feelings directed at the executive team or promoters. He acknowledged that the situation was simply an unfortunate reality of the combat sports industry, choosing to adopt a pragmatic and measured approach rather than engaging in public disputes or casting blame.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Crucially, the departure leaves the fighter completely unattached and in full control of his professional destiny as he looks toward the next phase of his career. By securing his unconditional release over the weekend, the seasoned champion has transitioned into an independent free agent, opening up a wide array of potential co-promotional arrangements and direct bouts across the global boxing ecosystem.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Looking ahead to the immediate future, Stevenson revealed ambitious plans to establish his very own promotional company, signaling a desire to steer his own professional trajectory. He emphasised his willingness to collaborate openly with other established promoters and industry stakeholders who share his intense level of dedication, ambition, and seriousness regarding the management of his career.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Prior to his brief association with the TKO-backed enterprise, the gifted southpaw cemented his legendary status by securing an impressive victory against fellow American rival Teofimo Lopez. That triumph crowned him as a four-weight world champion, showcasing his exceptional technical pedigree and ability to prevail against elite opposition on the biggest possible stages in the sport.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The overarching ambition for the New Jersey fighter remains centered on expanding his divisional legacy by capturing titles across multiple weight classes. Following his impressive ascent through the lower divisions, he had intensely targeted a historic matchup against Devin Haney with the express intention of capturing a belt in a fifth distinct weight division, cementing his status among the pound-for-pound greats of his era.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Although negotiations for the Haney matchup hit an insurmountable wall under his previous promotional umbrella, the newly minted free agent has mapped out a clear strategic path for his return to active competition. He intends to focus initially on successfully defending his WBO light-welterweight world title against top-tier contenders before eventually plotting a permanent ascent to the welterweight division in the coming years.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The silence from the promotional side has been notable, with Zuffa Boxing offering no immediate public comment regarding the fighter&#039;s assertions or the formal dissolution of the contract. The absence of an official corporate response highlights the sudden and unexpected nature of the split, which leaves the fledgling boxing venture without one of its most marketable marquee signings.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The ambitious organisation, led by UFC boss Dana White, has previously outlined grand ambitions to disrupt the traditional boxing promotional model and take over the sport through high-profile acquisitions. Among their most eye-catching early moves was the high-profile recruitment of British standout Conor Benn, who was successfully poached away from Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing to headline major events.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Benn has already made two appearances under the Zuffa banner, though his momentum took a severe blow last month when he suffered a swift and devastating knockout defeat against reigning world champion Ryan Garcia. The setback, combined with the sudden exit of a premier four-weight champion like Stevenson, has inevitably brought increased scrutiny regarding the promotional company&#039;s ability to consistently deliver promised fights and retain elite pound-for-pound talent.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The unfolding situation also sparked immediate external reactions within the broader combat sports community, with independent promoters and fighters monitoring the fallout closely. Notable figures, including crossover promoter Jake Paul, seized upon the news on social media to comment on the shifting dynamics of fighter contracts and promotional control across both mixed martial arts and professional boxing promotions.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">For a competitor who boasts an unblemished professional record spanning twenty-five fights, ring rust and promotional inactivity represent critical threats to career momentum. By taking swift legal and professional steps to terminate an unproductive contract, the fighter has demonstrated a ruthless commitment to preserving his prime years and ensuring that his considerable talents are actively showcased under the bright lights rather than wasted in training camp isolation.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The timing of the release places the light-welterweight kingpin at an intriguing crossroads, with numerous rival promoters likely to circle aggressively for his signature. Promoters such as Top Rank, Matchroom, and various promotional entities operating within the Middle Eastern boxing boom will undoubtedly assess whether they can offer the lucrative championship opportunities that the American demands.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As the dust settles on this brief and tumultuous chapter, the boxing world awaits the official announcement of the champion&#039;s next promotional home and his eventual return to the ring. With a wealth of talent remaining in the light-welterweight and welterweight divisions, high-stakes encounters against the sport&#039;s biggest names remain entirely possible now that the fighter holds the ultimate control over his career choices.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Market analysts and industry commentators have pointed out that Stevenson&#039;s departure underlines the inherent structural challenges of translating mixed martial arts promotional models directly into the traditional realm of professional boxing. While Zuffa Boxing entered the market with enormous financial backing and immense corporate ambition, securing the agreement of elite independent fighters requires consistent fight scheduling that satisfies top-tier pay demands and legacy goals.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The ongoing developments within the TKO-backed boxing venture will undoubtedly be watched closely by other contracted athletes and major managerial teams across the sport. Maintaining fighter satisfaction and active bout schedules remains the ultimate benchmark for any promotional entity aiming to achieve long-term dominance in the fiercely competitive global boxing market.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">With his newfound independent status fully secured, Shakur Stevenson is now positioned to dictate his own terms and negotiate directly with any promotional partner or television network. Fans and pundits alike will eagerly anticipate his next move as he prepares to embark on this fresh chapter in his illustrious combat sports career.</p>
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		<title>Oscar De La Hoya criticizes modern boxing landscape and addresses Ryan Garcia</title>
		<link>https://2thesports.com/oscar-de-la-hoya-criticizes-modern-boxing-landscape-and-addresses-ryan-garcia/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Muhammad Imran Khan]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 10 Oct 2026 09:01:29 +0000</pubDate>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://2thesports.com/oscar-de-la-hoya-criticizes-modern-boxing-landscape-and-addresses-ryan-garcia/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Promoter Oscar De La Hoya has voiced sharp criticism regarding the current state of professional boxing during a recent media appearance.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Promoter and former multi-division world champion Oscar De La Hoya has launched a scathing critique of the current landscape of professional boxing. Speaking in a recent interview, the Golden Boy Promotions head claimed that the sport is currently operating in the worst environment it has ever experienced. His remarks touched on a variety of ongoing controversies, promotional tensions, and high-profile matchups within the combat sports industry.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Among the prominent topics addressed by De La Hoya was the recent victory secured by Ryan Garcia over Conor Benn. De La Hoya discussed the background tensions that occurred between his promotional team and Zuffa Boxing during the build-up and execution of fight week. Furthermore, he addressed the looming free agency of Ryan Garcia, which has drawn significant interest from various promoters across the industry.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Talks surrounding potential future bouts for Garcia also captured attention, including swirling rumors of an offer from undefeated former pound-for-pound king Floyd Mayweather. According to reports discussed during the broadcast, Garcia would only entertain stepping into the ring with Mayweather on the condition that it is a fully sanctioned bout with Mayweather&#039;s unblemished professional record officially placed on the line.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The interview also shed light on promotional rivalries outside of De La Hoya&#039;s immediate stable, specifically touching upon the ongoing friction between UFC leader Dana White and Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn. Discussions included potential developments regarding negotiations for a blockbuster heavyweight clash between British stars Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua. Hearn recently commented on potential conditions for interactions with White concerning the promotional efforts around the Fury-Joshua matchup.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">De La Hoya offered insights into other stalled fights that fans had hoped to see materialise, explaining the reasons why a highly anticipated showdown between Vergil Ortiz and Jaron &#039;Boots&#039; Ennis ultimately failed to come together. In addition, the veteran promoter touched upon the upcoming ring return of Mexican superstar Canelo Alvarez, as well as circulating industry reports regarding the potential sale of Ring Magazine to streaming platform DAZN.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The wider combat sports ecosystem saw additional commentary regarding promotional dynamics and upcoming bouts involving high-profile athletes across various disciplines. Analysts and guests evaluated the complex commercial relationships shaping modern combat sports, highlighting the constant tug-of-war between independent promoters and burgeoning corporate entities within the sport.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Speculation regarding potential crossover matches and exhibition bouts continues to generate significant traction across digital media platforms. The rumored engagement between Floyd Mayweather and Ryan Garcia serves as a primary example of how marquee names continue to drive public interest, regardless of traditional division boundaries or sanctioning body implications.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Industry observers frequently debate the long-term sustainability of the current promotional model in professional boxing, noting that fragmented promotional rights often hinder the realization of the most compelling fights. Fans and experts alike routinely express frustration over major bouts failing to materialize due to competing broadcast networks and promotional rivalries.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The involvement of prominent figures from mixed martial arts entering the traditional boxing promotional space has further complicated the landscape. The emergence of Zuffa Boxing introduces new competitive pressures for legacy promotional entities like Golden Boy Promotions and Matchroom Boxing, altering traditional power dynamics.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Promotional friction between Dana White and Eddie Hearn has remained a persistent storyline within the combat sports media. Discussions regarding possible collaborations or continued competition for major events, such as the prospective Tyson Fury versus Anthony Joshua bout, continue to capture industry-wide attention.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The logistical challenges surrounding major heavyweight negotiations underscore the difficulties inherent in coordinating multi-party promotional agreements. Drug testing protocols, venue selections, and broadcast rights consistently complicate the finalization of elite-level matchups in the modern era.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The strategic direction of Ring Magazine and its reported acquisition interest from streaming platforms like DAZN reflect the evolving media consumption habits of combat sports audiences. Digital distribution channels continue to reshape how boxing properties are valued, monetized, and presented to global fanbases.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Fighter free agency periods frequently trigger intense bidding wars among major promoters eager to secure elite talent for their stable. Ryan Garcia&#039;s impending free agency status places him at the center of significant promotional maneuvering as various entities position themselves for his next career moves.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The failure of specific elite matchups to materialize, such as the proposed clash between Vergil Ortiz and Jaron &#039;Boots&#039; Ennis, highlights the ongoing frustrations within the boxing community. Fans continually advocate for the best fighters to face one another without promotional hurdles delaying or preventing the contests.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Canelo Alvarez remains a central figure in the sport&#039;s commercial hierarchy, with his upcoming ring appearances drawing immense global attention. Promoters constantly navigate the demands of managing premier superstars while addressing the broader structural challenges facing the professional boxing industry.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The commentary provided by Oscar De La Hoya adds a distinct perspective from a veteran promoter who has witnessed multiple eras of the sport. His assessment of boxing&#039;s current state underscores deep-seated concerns regarding governance, matchmaking parity, and the overall health of the combat sports ecosystem.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As promotional landscapes continue to shift under the influence of new capital and cross-code ventures, stakeholders must adapt to changing market conditions. The ongoing dialogue surrounding fighters, promoters, and media platforms illustrates a sport in a state of continuous transition and commercial evolution.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Media coverage of professional boxing increasingly incorporates multi-platform discussions, analyzing every nuance of fighter negotiations, promotional rivalries, and corporate acquisitions. Industry analysts track these developments closely to understand how upcoming events will shape the future trajectory of the sport.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The intersection of traditional boxing promotion and modern digital streaming models creates both opportunities and friction for established promoters. Navigating these modern realities requires strategic adaptability as new entities challenge long-established operational norms within the combat sports industry.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Stakeholders across the boxing spectrum will continue to monitor developments regarding fighter contracts, promotional partnerships, and potential high-profile matchups. The resolutions to current industry disputes will ultimately determine the commercial and competitive success of the sport in the coming years.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The continuous public interest in potential matchups like Mayweather versus Garcia demonstrates the enduring appeal of marquee combat sports events. Even amidst widespread structural criticism from industry veterans, the sport retains a massive global audience eager for high-stakes competition.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Promotional entities face mounting pressure to deliver compelling cards that satisfy both television networks and discerning fans. Balancing commercial viability with competitive integrity remains a central challenge for leaders across the professional boxing landscape.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The ongoing rivalry between leading promoters ensures that media discourse remains vibrant, with various figures frequently utilizing interview platforms to articulate their positions. These public exchanges often set the agenda for upcoming negotiations and industry-wide policy discussions.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As the combat sports calendar progresses, the focus will inevitably return to the athletes inside the ring and the outcomes of pivotal bouts. Promoters and governing bodies must ultimately navigate the complex web of interests to deliver the fights that fans demand.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The comprehensive overview provided by industry figures during recent media appearances highlights the multifaceted nature of modern boxing promotion. From fighter free agency to corporate buyouts and stalled negotiations, the sport remains as politically complex as it is physically demanding.</p>
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		<title>Sean Strickland Issues Ultimatum To UFC Amid Bitter Pay Dispute</title>
		<link>https://2thesports.com/sean-strickland-issues-ultimatum-to-ufc-amid-bitter-pay-dispute/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Muhammad Imran Khan]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 10 Oct 2026 07:56:35 +0000</pubDate>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://2thesports.com/sean-strickland-issues-ultimatum-to-ufc-amid-bitter-pay-dispute/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland has threatened to walk away from mixed martial arts following a contract breakdown.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="wp-block-paragraph">UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland has issued a definitive ultimatum to the Ultimate Fighting Championship amid an escalating financial dispute with the promotion. The outspoken titleholder stated clearly that he refuses to step inside the Octagon or sign any new bout agreements until his remuneration issues are properly resolved.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The contract standoff has thrown the division into temporary uncertainty after talks for a high-profile title defense collapsed completely. Strickland revealed his mounting frustrations through social media platforms, targeting the organization&#039;s business model and compensation structure while publicly demanding a release.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The financial disagreement initially flared up when negotiation talks stalled for a planned championship defense against top-ranked contender Nassourdine Imavov. The promotion had hoped to book the pairing as a marquee year-end attraction, but financial terms proposed by the organization were rejected by the champion.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">With both sides unable to bridge the gap during negotiations, the scheduled matchup failed to materialize for the upcoming event calendar. The promotional leadership quickly pivoted away from the impasse, ultimately selecting a different pairing to anchor their final pay-per-view card of the calendar year in Las Vegas.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Instead of the middleweight championship clash, the organization opted to feature a BMF title bout between Charles Oliveira and Diego Lopes at UFC 335 on December 12. The pivot left Strickland&#039;s immediate sporting future entirely up in the air as his public war of words with management intensified.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Strickland did not hold back in expressing his grievances regarding what he perceives as a stark disparity in fighter pay across combat sports. He pointed specifically to lucrative purses commanded by other combat sports athletes, including mixed martial arts star Conor McGregor and boxer Conor Benn.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The middleweight titleholder argued that the financial offers extended to him for a risky championship defense failed to reflect his status as a marquee pay-per-view attraction and belt holder. He labeled the proposed compensation package as insulting given the physical toll required to compete at the elite level.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Opening up about the physical toll of his career, Strickland admitted that the intense demands of mixed martial arts training had severely worn him down. He cited multiple lingering physical ailments, including a groin tear and an AC joint separation, which have heavily impacted his enthusiasm.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The champion went as far as to state that his heart was no longer fully invested in mixed martial arts competition. He suggested that switching codes to professional boxing might offer a safer and far more lucrative alternative to continuing his career inside the cage.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">In his provocative statements, Strickland openly floated the prospect of pursuing a lucrative boxing match against social media star turned pugilist Jake Paul. The suggestion immediately captured headlines across the combat sports landscape and drew sharp reactions from analysts and fellow fighters alike.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The public dispute has also sparked widespread commentary from prominent figures within the mixed martial arts community, including former heavyweight contender Brendan Schaub. Speaking on his digital broadcast channel, Schaub offered a nuanced perspective on the unprecedented nature of a reigning champion publicly rebelling against organizational pay scales.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Schaub acknowledged that while he sympathized with the champion&#039;s desire for improved compensation, executing a plan to bypass a contract via a move to a heavier weight class or crossover boxing is notoriously difficult. He highlighted the structural realities of promotional contracts that favor the organization.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">UFC Hall of Famer Daniel Cormier also weighed in on the ongoing controversy, expressing empathy for Strickland&#039;s reluctance to accept a difficult rematch without adequate financial backing. Cormier noted that holding championship status grants an athlete slightly more leverage during high-stakes financial negotiations.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Despite possessing that championship leverage, industry analysts remain skeptical about how the standoff will ultimately conclude. The promotion&#039;s historical track record in contract disputes suggests that high-profile holdouts rarely force major systemic concessions from the sport&#039;s dominant market leader.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Reports indicate that Strickland signed a new six-fight contract extension prior to capturing his latest championship crown, leaving him with multiple bouts remaining on his current deal. This long-term commitment grants the organization significant control over his career trajectory under standard promotional agreement terms.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The current contract structure effectively prevents a disgruntled athlete from easily walking away or competing elsewhere without facing severe legal or contractual hurdles. Industry observers have frequently criticized these long-term agreements for limiting fighter mobility and long-term financial security.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Strickland&#039;s ascent to the top of the 185-pound division has been defined by improbable victories and characteristic unpredictability. He reclaimed the middleweight championship this past May at UFC 328 by delivering a stunning upset victory over the previously undefeated Khamzat Chimaev.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Prior to that triumph, the American contender shocked the sports world in September 2023 at UFC 293. Entering that bout as a massive betting underdog, he produced a masterclass performance to comprehensively defeat long-reigning champion Israel Adesanya and claim the belt for the first time.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">His history with Nassourdine Imavov also includes a previous encounter where Strickland secured a unanimous decision victory over the French contender. That initial meeting took place during a light heavyweight contest, making a proposed middleweight championship rematch a logical step for the division.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">However, the breakdown in financial negotiations has cast serious doubt on whether a championship rematch will actually take place in early 2027. Both parties remain locked in a tense standoff with no immediate resolution in sight for the division&#039;s top belt.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The ongoing saga highlights persistent underlying tensions surrounding fighter compensation and revenue distribution within mixed martial arts. As one of the prominent American stars on the roster, Strickland&#039;s vocal opposition places a renewed spotlight on these industry-wide economic debates.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Whether the champion will ultimately soften his stance or follow through on his threats to vacate the title and pursue boxing remains one of the most compelling storylines in combat sports. For now, the division waits to see if management and their outspoken titleholder can find common ground.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The organization faces a delicate balancing act in managing its relationship with a volatile yet undeniably popular champion. A failure to resolve the dispute amicably risks leaving the middleweight division temporarily paralyzed while its rightful titleholder sits on the sidelines.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As the countdown to the final events of the year continues, the attention of the MMA world remains firmly fixed on the unfolding negotiations. Fans and pundits alike are monitoring social media feeds for any sign of a breakthrough in the high-stakes contract impasse.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Additional voices from the broader fighting community have continued to weigh in on the unfolding drama surrounding the middleweight champion. Veteran fighters and analysts have offered varied perspectives on whether a crossover into the boxing ring represents a viable escape route from his current promotional obligations.</p>
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		<title>Dana White credits Eddie Hearn as Fury vs Joshua feud continues</title>
		<link>https://2thesports.com/dana-white-credits-eddie-hearn-as-fury-vs-joshua-feud-continues/</link>
					<comments>https://2thesports.com/dana-white-credits-eddie-hearn-as-fury-vs-joshua-feud-continues/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Muhammad Imran Khan]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 10 Oct 2026 01:44:42 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Boxing]]></category>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://2thesports.com/dana-white-credits-eddie-hearn-as-fury-vs-joshua-feud-continues/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[UFC president Dana White praises Eddie Hearn for securing the UK venue but dismisses their ongoing promotional feud.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="wp-block-paragraph">UFC president and Zuffa Boxing chief Dana White has publicly credited promoter Eddie Hearn for ensuring that the long-awaited heavyweight showdown between British boxing stars Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua will take place inside the United Kingdom rather than abroad.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The blockbuster heavyweight encounter is officially scheduled to be hosted at the iconic Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales, marking a massive domestic homecoming for the two elite fighters after months of complex international negotiations regarding the final venue location.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Initial preferences and behind-the-scenes discussions involving various organizers, including elements within the American promotional landscape and prominent Saudi Arabian backers, had heavily favored staging the high-profile fixture at New York&#039;s historic Madison Square Garden.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">However, Anthony Joshua and his long-time promoter Eddie Hearn steadfastly refused to compromise on their contractual rights, insisting with absolute firmness that the historic sporting encounter had to be staged on home soil for British supporters.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Speaking in detail on the 5 Live Boxing with Bunce podcast hosted by well-known broadcaster Steve Bunce, White acknowledged the relentless effort and determination required by the Matchroom Boxing chairman to keep the monumental event within British borders.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">You&#039;ve got to give credit to Eddie for really grinding that and making sure that it happened in the UK, White stated during his appearance on the combat sports podcast, recognizing his rival&#039;s persistence in the venue tug-of-war.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Despite the positive resolution regarding the physical location of the event, the build-up has been consistently overshadowed by a bitter public dispute over executive promotional roles involving White, Hearn, and veteran British promoter Frank Warren.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The upcoming heavyweight bout has been officially presented to the public as an unprecedented collaborative venture between Saudi boxing powerbroker Turki Alalshikh&#039;s publication, The Ring, and White&#039;s newly established Zuffa Boxing commercial entity.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Tensions between the promotional figureheads escalated sharply earlier this year following the official launch of Zuffa Boxing, leading to a public feud between Hearn and White that repeatedly threatened to derail the collaborative efforts behind the scenes.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Hearn had previously insisted publicly that White would have no operational involvement whatsoever in the promotion of the fixture, claiming flatly during media appearances that the American&#039;s participation simply would not be happening.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Doubts surrounding the structural organization and unified management of the fight card eventually prompted both Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua to step forward directly and host a joint news conference on September 30 to ease widespread public concerns.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Although Dana White was conspicuously absent from that particular media event held in London, he maintained an uncompromising stance regarding his operational responsibilities and authority for the actual night of the fight itself.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Me and my team will be producing the fight that night, White asserted during his extensive podcast interview, clarifying his expected logistical footprint and commercial involvement on the evening of the major competition.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">I guess we&#039;ll call me one of the promoters of the event because you do have Frank Warren and Eddie Hearn that are both promoters too, promoting the event, the UFC executive added, outlining the multi-promoter structure of the venture.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Frank Warren serves as the primary promoter representing Tyson Fury, operating alongside Eddie Hearn who guides the storied career of Anthony Joshua under the established Matchroom Boxing promotional banner in the United Kingdom.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">While Hearn has repeatedly maintained in interviews that White could not act as a formal promoter for the bout, the British promoter recently suggested a sudden willingness to sit down with his American counterpart to clear the air.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Hearn indicated to journalists that he was prepared to meet with White to discuss how the American could potentially fit into the collaborative promotional framework for the lucrative December fight card in the Welsh capital.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">However, White quickly dismissed the necessity of any formal sit-down meeting, expressing his profound exhaustion and weariness with the ongoing public verbal sparring between the two high-profile promotional leaders.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">I&#039;m actually bored with this now. Who cares? This isn&#039;t about me and Eddie Hearn, White declared during the podcast, shifting the focus entirely back toward the two athletes who will ultimately trade blows inside the ring.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">It&#039;s about AJ and Fury. It&#039;s about this heavyweight fight, White continued, emphasizing with strong conviction that the sheer magnitude of the athletic contest vastly supersedes any administrative or executive disagreements between promoters.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">It&#039;s an Eddie show, not a Dana and Eddie show. It&#039;s boring now. This is about AJ and Fury, White added, reiterating firmly that the sporting spotlight rightly belongs to the fighters rather than the backroom staff.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This was never the Dana and Eddie show. It&#039;s been all the Eddie show, White concluded, attempting to draw a definitive and final line under the weeks of collaborative friction that have dominated boxing headlines.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The heavyweight clash is officially set for December 11, with the main card beginning late in the evening and the anticipated ringwalks stretching deep into the early hours of December 12 for international audiences.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Boxing fans and industry observers demonstrated unprecedented demand for the historic matchup, with tickets priced up to an astonishing 13,000 pounds completely selling out within a remarkable one-hour window via official Ticketmaster channels.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Discussions regarding the local logistics and crowd management in Cardiff have even raised the fascinating possibility of the Principality Stadium remaining open until 3:30am to safely accommodate the massive live audience in attendance.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The blockbuster event is also slated to be broadcast globally via Netflix, bringing the historic British heavyweight rivalry directly to millions of digital streaming subscribers around the world on fight night.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Adding substantial intrigue to the overall fight card, rumors have surfaced regarding potential marquee matchups on the undercard, including discussions involving cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia and former heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As the December 11 date rapidly approaches, both training camps are expected to finalize their rigorous preparations and media schedules, leaving the complex promotional governance largely settled behind the scenes in Cardiff.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The ultimate resolution of the venue dispute ensures that British boxing fans will experience the long-awaited collision between Fury and Joshua live in Cardiff rather than across the Atlantic Ocean in the United States.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">With tickets entirely exhausted and high-profile broadcast plans securely in place, attention now shifts decisively to the physical preparations of the two heavyweights as they train relentlessly for their monumental encounter.</p>
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