Though he’s yet to score a home run, Dana White nonetheless appears to be touching one new base after another. The UFC honcho has been under relentless scrutiny over the proposed amendments to the Muhammad Ali Act. Backed by TKO, the parent company of the UFC, WWE, and now Zuffa Boxing, the revival act aims to establish a Unified Boxing Organization. With their own rankings, titles, and belts, much like how the UFC functions today, they would operate independently. However, the move has reportedly come under severe criticism.

In light of the UFC’s $375 million antitrust settlement, many worry whether allowing a single entity to regulate fighters’ careers monopolistically bodes well for the sport’s future. Yet Dana White and TKO’s initiative seem to have received some notable endorsements. The unanimous support it garnered from the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) is one prime example. Now, even a few figures from boxing’s old guard appear enthusiastic about what White and his team are attempting to do for the sport.

Teddy Atlas joins Dana White’s corner

Boxing Kingdom shared excerpts from comments made by Mike Tyson’s former trainer, Teddy Atlas. Reflecting on how Dana White transformed the fate of MMA in such a short span, the Hall of Fame trainer reportedly said, “In a short period of time, Dana has taken MMA, and he has made the UFC into a huge brand. He gives the fans what they want, the best against the best.”

White has done so much for the combat sports world. So Atlas felt he truly deserves a pat on the back. He added, “So, a guy like that. He’s got my backing that he will do with boxing what he did with the UFC—make it good for the fans. He will make it good for the sport.”

To set the record straight, this isn’t the first time Teddy Atlas has voiced his support for Dana White. Months ago, during an interview for MMA Knockout, Atlas made it clear what White’s presence could mean for boxing. “I love Dana White. I love what he’s done with the UFC…his no-nonsense approach. When you say rework it [the Ali Act], I don’t know what that means, but I’ll tell you what it means to Teddy… I want to see it get better,” he said.

But it goes without saying. Even with the support of stalwarts like Teddy Atlas, doubts over White and TKO’s intentions to introduce changes to boxing will continue to persist.

The Ali Revival Act: Amid skepticism, Dana White answers

Even those outside the boxing fold seem wary of how the proposed Ali revival act might affect athletes. Especially those who plan to cross over from MMA to boxing for bigger paydays. In light of UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall’s rumored plans to switch to 16-ounce gloves, former fighter and now MMA insider Dan Hardy voiced a few concerns.

He said, “I feel like this is partly the reason why the Ali revival act is coming through, because it will allow perks, which takes away the temptation for the fighters to go somewhere else and make actual money.” His, and many others’, fears stem from White’s past statements. The UFC president appeared dismissive about allowing UFC fighters to test their luck inside the boxing ring.

For his part, White has already clarified. Aside from the introduction of the UBO, nothing in the Ali Act will change. “Not one word is going to be changed. Not one thing. “There’s just going to be an add-on to the Muhammad Ali Act,” he stated on the 3 Knockdown Rule.

So, amid these uncertain times, earning the approval of one of boxing’s most respected trainers marks a significant win for Dana White. The days ahead will likely reveal more developments on this front.

What’s your take on Teddy Atlas’s opinion and Dana White’s boxing entry?