Muhammad Ali’s Grandson Criticizes the Revival of Ali Act in Boxing

Nico Ali Walsh, the grandson of the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali, expressed concerns about the revision of a boxing law bearing his grandfather’s name. This law, known as the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act of 2026, is advancing through efforts led by UFC founder Dana White and TKO Group.

The bill introduces new “Unified Boxing Organizations” that would centralize the organization of fighters, promotions, rankings, and titles. The Congressional Budget Office notes that this would involve these organizations managing contracts, promotions, and ranking systems under a unified framework.

Nico Ali Walsh, after a match in San Diego (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images)

Walsh disagrees with the bill’s naming and intends to discuss the matter with Dana White. “My direct and respectful message to Dana White: We know what my grandfather’s legacy means to this sport. We both know that as this bill stands, it should not have his name on it,” Walsh stated, referring to his heritage as the grandson of Muhammad Ali through his daughter, Rasheda Ali, and nephew to Laila Ali.

The original Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act, enacted in 2000, aimed at countering unfair and anti-competitive practices. A significant component was preventing promoters from holding financial interests in boxers’ management, and vice versa.

Walsh criticizes the new bill for potentially weakening these regulations. He believes it allows a single entity to serve multiple roles such as a promoter and ranking body. “That’s what the current Muhammad Ali Act protects from happening in boxing,” Walsh emphasized.

This controversial revival act, co-sponsored by Representatives Brian Jack and Sharice Davids, passed the House with bipartisan support and now awaits consideration in the Senate Commerce Committee. Prominent promoters like Oscar De La Hoya also share Walsh’s concerns about creating a near-monopoly in boxing.

Despite his objections, Walsh acknowledges the potential for updates to the original Ali Act. He notes that enhancements in fighter health benefits being offered are positive but stresses these should not overshadow the loss of protections.

Supporters of the new bill argue that it would bring modernization to the sport, citing improved safety and business regulations for the proposed Unified Boxing Organizations.

As the debate unfolds, Walsh encourages his peers to become informed about the Ali Act. “You need to know your rights as a fighter,” he stated, stressing the importance of raising awareness among fighters and fans.

Inquiries to the UFC for comments from Fox News Digital remain unanswered. Meanwhile, sports reporter Jackson Thompson continues to cover essential intersections of politics, culture, and sports.