Hearn Fires Back at White: Boxing Rules Clarified

The recent dispute between boxing promoter Eddie Hearn and UFC CEO Dana White has intensified following Anthony Joshua's decision to sign with the Creative Artists Agency (CAA). Dana White had questioned why Eddie Hearn did not personally manage Joshua.

Hearn countered, explaining that professional boxing regulations, specifically the Muhammad Ali Act, prevent promoters from also managing fighters. He detailed that combining these roles creates a conflict of interest, as a manager must secure the best deals for a fighter, while a promoter organizes events. Matchroom Boxing's extensive operations in the United States make adherence to these rules crucial.

Hearn also revealed that Joshua had previously managed his own affairs through his company, 258, but found it challenging to balance with his demanding boxing career. Consequently, Joshua opted to transfer management responsibilities to CAA to better focus on his training and performance. This move was conducted openly with Hearn's company.

The promoter suggested White's criticism stemmed from a misunderstanding of boxing's regulatory framework. Hearn pointed to historical boxing controversies involving promoters like Don King and Al Haymon as reasons for the stringent regulations in place to ensure fairness and clear boundaries between management and promotion.