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Philippines, 25 Jul 2025 |
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Bipartisan Bill Introduced in Congress to Revitalize American Boxing and Protect Fighters By Gabriel F. Cordero PhilBoxing.com Thu, 24 Jul 2025  U.S. Representatives Brian Jack (R-Georgia) and Sharice Davids (D-Kansas) jointly introduced the "Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act" in Congress this Wednesday. This bipartisan bill aims to significantly improve professional boxing through the establishment of "Unified Boxing Organizations" (UBOs), a novel framework designed to offer boxers enhanced opportunities and protections within their profession. The proposed UBOs would primarily focus on new and developing boxers, addressing critical issues currently prevalent in the sport. Under this new system, athletes injured during training would receive essential medical coverage, and all participating boxers would be enrolled in comprehensive drug-testing programs, ensuring a fairer and safer competitive environment. The bill also mandates strict anti-gambling policies to maintain integrity and explicitly prohibits the requirement of penalty fees from boxers, aiming to alleviate financial burdens on fighters. Crucially, the bill clarifies that established sanctioning bodies such as the World Boxing Council (WBC), World Boxing Association (WBA), World Boxing Organization (WBO), and International Boxing Federation (IBF) would continue to oversee and sanction championship bouts as the primary organizations for professional boxing. The newly created UBOs would operate independently of these traditional bodies, with their events regulated by state sports commissions. A key component of the legislation is its emphasis on fighter welfare, including robust insurance coverage. The bill proposes a minimum of $25,000 in coverage for injuries sustained during a bout. Furthermore, it seeks to improve minimum wage standards and overall insurance benefits for boxers. To enhance medical safeguards, the bill provides for mandatory annual medical exams and advanced testing, including MRIs. It would also increase the required number of licensed physicians and ambulance units present at boxing events, ensuring immediate access to critical medical care. It's important to note that the new model outlined in the bill would not mandate changes for major male and female boxing stars or those already earning millions in prize money. These established athletes would not be required to alter their current professional status, allowing the bill to primarily focus its protective measures on aspiring and developing fighters. The "Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act" has already garnered significant endorsement. Lonnie Ali, widow of the late boxing legend Muhammad Ali and co-founder of the Muhammad Ali Center, issued a powerful statement in support of the bill. "Ali would be proud of this bill," she affirmed, highlighting its intent to foster "opportunities for other athletes to pursue their goals and dreams, just as he did." This endorsement from the Ali family underscores the bill's alignment with the values and legacy of one of boxing's greatest advocates for human rights and athlete welfare. Click here to view a list of other articles written by Gabriel F. Cordero.  |
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