Professional boxing would get a major regulatory overhaul under this bill, named after Muhammad Ali. It creates a new category called a "unified boxing organization" (UBO) — essentially a league that can sign boxers, organize matches, and manage rankings under one roof. Any UBO would have to meet strict safety rules: two ambulances and two doctors at ringside, mandatory brain scans and physicals (especially for boxers over 40), independent drug testing, and training insurance that covers injuries outside the ring. Boxers under contract would be guaranteed at least $200 per round and at least one fight every six months. Contracts are capped at six years, and boxers can't be charged fees for rankings or title shots. The bill also tightens existing rules for all of professional boxing, including requiring drug testing for title fights and limiting each organization to one championship belt per weight class.
Congressional Summary
Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act of 2026This bill authorizes the establishment of private-sector Unified Boxing Organizations (UBOs) and otherwise expands the regulatory framework for professional boxing. (See CRS Report IF12982 for an overview of the federal regulation of professional boxing in the United States.)Under the bill, UBOs may organize matches involving boxers contracted with the UBO and must comply with other regulations with respect to such matches (e.g., conduct matches under the authority of a state boxing commission). UBOs also operate alongside existing professional boxing organizations (e.g., World Boxing Council (WBC)).UBOs must meet certain additional requirements, for examplethe UBO must implement an anti-doping program that includes drug testing in advance of matches,boxers age 40 or older must receive supplemental physical examinations,each match must have at least two ambulances on site, andboxers must have access to equipment and facilities that are operated by the UBO for training and rehabilitation.The bill also expands the required health insurance coverage and minimum pay for all professional boxers.Further, the bill requires state boxing commissions to establish procedures to ensure that drug tests are administered for title matches and at random for all other matches.
Legislative Subjects
Details
- Congress
- 119th
- Chamber
- House
- Status
- summarized
- Action
- Reported to House
- Action Date
- 2026-02-25
- Date Added
- 2026-03-30