Dana White, the UFC president, has taken his Zuffa Boxing venture to the UK, bypassing major cities to land in Bournemouth this Saturday. The card features local favourite Chris Billam-Smith against Ryan Rozicki, with a strong undercard. White has long criticised boxing as 'broken' and aims to fix it with partner Turki Alalshikh, but so far Zuffa's six shows have been underwhelming.
The feud with Eddie Hearn escalated after Conor Benn signed with Zuffa in February for a reported $15m fee, leaving Matchroom Boxing. The pair have traded insults and even discussed a $25m fight between themselves. Hearn is currently ahead in the rivalry, but White's UK visit may shift momentum.
Zuffa's strategy involves signing top boxers to strict contracts and creating a league system with Zuffa belts. However, two world champions have lost their titles outside the ring since joining. Saturday's event is Zuffa's best yet, but the long-term success of the venture remains uncertain.
