Mike Tyson is stepping into the political ring to support the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act, a proposal designed to improve pay, health coverage, and protections for professional boxers. The legendary former heavyweight champion sent a letter on October 25 to U.S. Representatives Tim Walberg (R-MI) and Bobby Scott (D-VA), the chair and ranking member of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce. Tyson argued that the current system benefits only a few top stars while leaving the majority of fighters with little negotiating power.
The bill, introduced in July by Representatives Brian Jack (R-GA) and Sharice Davids (D-KS), has nine co-sponsors and is scheduled for a hearing on Thursday at 10:15 a.m. ET under the Subcommittee on Workforce Protections. The hearing, titled *“In Their Corner: Creating More Opportunities for American Boxers,”* aims to discuss the bill’s potential impact.
Mike Tyson Endorses Congressman Brian Jack’s Bipartisan Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act#BOXINGnBBQ #Boxing pic.twitter.com/TsBy79INCE
— BOXING n BBQ (@BOXINGnBBQ) December 1, 2025
Reviving Protections for Fighters
Key elements of the Revival Act include the creation of Unified Boxing Organizations (UBOs) that supplement existing sanctioning bodies, rather than replacing the World Boxing Council, World Boxing Association, World Boxing Organization, and International Boxing Federation. The legislation proposes a $150 minimum per round, mandatory health insurance with at least $25,000 coverage for injuries during bouts, more sanctioned events, ranking systems, title belts, and safeguards against betting abuses. Tyson emphasized that the bill ensures fair compensation and protects fighters from having to choose between paying medical bills and continuing their careers.
Tyson wrote, “Current rules work for stars with influence but leave most fighters at a disadvantage. This legislation will provide fair pay, proper health coverage, and new opportunities for those who need it most. Muhammad Ali has always been my hero, both inside and outside the ring.”
The Revival Act builds on the Professional Boxing Safety Act of 1996 and the 2000 Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act, which established nationwide safety standards but left loopholes that sometimes allowed promoters to regain control over fighters’ careers. Supporters argue the new bill strengthens protections while giving boxers alternative paths to success. The California State Athletic Commission voted 6-0 in favor of the measure, provided cost-of-living adjustments are included.
Some critics remain cautious. Oscar De La Hoya, who won 11 world titles across six weight classes, questioned whether the TKO-backed UBOs would attract young boxers seeking fame and higher earnings. He also highlighted past claims from MMA fighters that UFC suppressed competition, though the company has denied these allegations. Tyson stressed that UBOs would not take away opportunities for those content with the current system, stating the bill offers “options for fighters who wish to pursue a different path that better suits their career goals.”
By advocating for the Revival Act, Tyson seeks to give boxers nationwide better financial, medical, and professional protections while honoring the legacy of Muhammad Ali.
