The California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) first opened discussions on the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act on September 8. After extensive deliberations, the topic was initially postponed until December 8. However, CSAC advanced the discussion to last Wednesday, where the commission revisited the matter and ultimately voted to support the TKO Group–backed amendments to the Muhammad Ali Act.

The bipartisan bill received unanimous approval in a 6-0 vote following a two-hour public meeting that drew over 90 attendees, with 32 members sharing their perspectives. CSAC’s endorsement came with one key stipulation — that the amendments must include state-level provisions to adjust for cost-of-living differences. Days after CSAC announced its support, Muhammad Ali’s grandson publicly shared his thoughts on the commission’s decision.

Nico Ali Walsh is disappointed with CSAC

The grandson of the legendary heavyweight took to X earlier today to voice his disapproval of the CSAC’s decision to support amendments to the Ali Act. “Anyone who truly knew my grandfather knows he’d never support this ‘Revival Act,’” Walsh wrote on X. The young fighter has been outspoken about his concerns surrounding the Muhammad Ali American Revival Act, arguing that the new bipartisan bill could do more harm than good for boxers.

“Legacy isn’t about last names, it’s about principles. I stand with my grandfather’s principles,” Nico Ali Walsh continued. “If you’re not a fighter, don’t speak for us. It’s disappointing the CSAC is backing this.” Despite Walsh’s opposition, Muhammad Ali’s widow, Lonnie Ali, has already voiced her support for the proposed legislation.

Meanwhile, TKO Group and Saudi Arabia-backed ZUFFA Boxing, spearheaded by UFC CEO Dana White, plan to establish the Unified Boxing Organization (UBO). It’s a system that would allow a single entity to manage both fight promotions and the sanctioning of titles and rankings, much like the UFC’s model for mixed martial arts. However, participation is voluntary—boxers who prefer to remain with their current promoters will not be affected by the amendments.

Contrary to Walsh’s remarks, TKO Group President Nick Khan maintains that the initiative honors Ali’s legacy, which he made clear while thanking the California Commission. 

Nick Khan thanks CSAC

ZUFFA Boxing board member Nick Khan extended his gratitude to the California State Athletic Commission following its unanimous 6-0 vote in favor of the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act. “On behalf of Zuffa Boxing, we want to thank the [CSAC] for their thoughtful consideration of all voices presented in today’s hearing and for their unanimous (6-0) support for the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act,” Khan said in a statement.

He emphasized that the proposal would not replace the original Muhammad Ali Act but instead introduce “an alternative system in which fighters will have more choice and opportunities, better pay, greater health and safety protections, and more events in which to compete.” Khan also highlighted the backing of Lonnie Ali, the widow of Muhammad Ali, quoting her words: “This is a great opportunity for boxers, and this is what Muhammad would have wanted.”

From the looks of things, despite friction from a part of the boxing community, which includes Nico Ali Walsh, the implementation of the Muhammad Ali American Revival Act is moving forward as planned. Yet, it awaits a hearing in the U.S. House of Representatives, which will bring it into effect. What are your thoughts on the matter?