UFC veteran Daniel Cormier believes Dana White`s entry into boxing will elevate the sport`s top super-fight, making it an even grander spectacle.
The UFC chief, partnering with Turki Alalshikh, is launching TKO Boxing, with the inaugural event set for September 12 in Las Vegas. This debut features a highly anticipated clash between two of boxing`s best pound-for-pound fighters, Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford, at Allegiant Stadium.
White`s new boxing promotion was revealed on social media following the fighters` face-off in Saudi Arabia. Notably, White is also promoting a major UFC event, UFC 320, in Guadalajara the night after the boxing match.
UFC Legend Backs Dana White to Elevate Interest in Canelo vs. Crawford
Daniel Cormier, a former two-division UFC champion and now a prominent commentator, is known for his strong support of Dana White.
Cormier expressed enthusiasm for White`s new boxing venture, stating in a recent video that White adds a new dimension to what is already considered a major fight. Cormier praised the fighters, saying, “They’re two of the best boxers in the world.”
Cormier continued, emphasizing the fighters` current form: “They’re not over the hill at all. These are phenomenal fighters. They’re both still in their prime.” He contrasted this with the UFC landscape, noting the relative age of champions. Cormier acknowledged that the fight might have generated *slightly* more hype a couple of years prior, perhaps before Canelo`s most recent performance. However, he asserted, “With that being said, Dana White’s going to promote this thing, and because Dana White is going to promote this thing, I feel like it will bring a different level of interest… They’re still in their athletic prime.” He concluded by wishing he could have seen Canelo fight when he was at a lighter weight.
Mixed Reactions from Boxing Fans
However, Cormier`s positive view isn`t universally shared within the boxing community. Some fans express reservations about White`s involvement, citing his controversial business practices in the UFC, particularly regarding fighter compensation, which are not well-received by all boxing enthusiasts.
Online comments reveal significant backlash. One fan called his involvement “Disgusting,” while another questioned, “Why involve Dana White? He’s not needed! Stick to UFC.” Concerns were also raised about potential scheduling conflicts, with one user commenting on the possibility of the fight being on a Friday due to a Saturday UFC event. Other comments were simply critical of White`s presence.