Dana White has responded to speculation linking Oleksandr Usyk with Zuffa Boxing, providing a clear update during the UFC 324 press conference. UFC CEO Dana White was asked whether Oleksandr Usyk could be the next major fighter to sign with his new boxing promotion.
Dana White has responded to speculation linking Oleksandr Usyk with Zuffa Boxing, providing a clear update during the UFC 324 press conference.
UFC CEO Dana White was asked whether Oleksandr Usyk could be the next major fighter to sign with his new boxing promotion.
The discussion followed comments from Usyk’s team, who revealed that talks with Zuffa Boxing executives had already begun.
Sergey Lapin, director for Team Usyk, told TalkSport Bet that “dialogue had taken place” between both sides.
Dana White outlines Zuffa Boxing recruitment strategy
During the UFC 324 press conference, Dana White explained that Zuffa Boxing’s recruitment plan is focused on building a long-term roster of elite fighters.
When responding to reports of Zuffa Boxing signing Oleksandr Usyk, he said the organisation aims to attract both proven champions and emerging talent.
“We’re talking to everybody that we think are the most talented people in the world, or have the potential to be the most talented people in the world,” White said.
White’s comments suggest that while Oleksandr Usyk remains a target, Zuffa Boxing’s broader focus is on sustained growth rather than one-off signings.
The approach mirrors how White built the UFC into a global combat sports powerhouse.
Zuffa Boxing focused on elite-level signings
Zuffa Boxing officially launched this month with Dana White and WWE President Nick Khan leading the promotion.
Its first event, Zuffa Boxing 01, streams on Paramount+ and features Callum Walsh vs. Carlos Ocampo as the headline bout.
The company has already secured Jai Opetaia, one of boxing’s top pound-for-pound fighters, as its first marquee signing.
Adding Oleksandr Usyk would mark a significant step as Zuffa Boxing positions itself alongside established global promotions.
Usyk remains part of that conversation, but any deal will depend on timing and alignment with Zuffa Boxing’s future plans.
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Category: General Sports
