Zuffa Boxing Moves Forward with Billam-Smith Fight Amid Legal Dispute
Zuffa Boxing is set to host its inaugural event in the UK on Saturday, featuring former WBO cruiserweight champion Chris Billam-Smith in a headline bout against Canadian Ryan Rozicki at the Bournemouth International Centre. The event will also showcase fellow Britons Jack Massey and Sam Hickey on the undercard. Despite facing legal challenges from rival promoter Boxxer, Zuffa Boxing plans to proceed as scheduled. Boxxer claims to have contractual rights concerning the fighters involved and asserts that they are participating without "consent or authorisation." A statement from Boxxer indicated: Boxxer is seeking urgent injunctive relief against Zuffa Boxing and Sky Sports. The fighters remain bound by contractual obligations to Boxxer, which they allegedly violated by promoting the event. Boxxer has informed all parties of these obligations, yet the fighters continue to be advertised without consent. In response, Zuffa Boxing, founded by UFC president Dana White and supported by Saudi Arabian funding, remains confident in its position and is determined to challenge the established norms of boxing promotion. The unfolding situation highlights the competitive landscape within the sport as Zuffa aims to carve out its niche.
Source: BBC Sport - 2026-06-05