Ben Shalom Clashes With talkSPORT Host Over Zuffa Boxing

Zuffa Boxing is already creating tension in professional boxing, with BOXXER promoter Ben Shalom openly challenging the promotion’s growing influence. The company, launched by UFC boss Dana White and backed by Saudi boxing figure Turki Alalshikh, has attracted major names while raising concerns among established promoters.

Shakur Stevenson and Conor Benn are among the fighters linked with the new promotion. Shalom, however, believes Zuffa Boxing’s approach could disrupt the structure that currently supports professional boxing.

Shalom Calls for Action

Instagram | @zuffaboxing | Ben Shalom raises legal red flags as Zuffa Boxing’s rapid growth disrupts traditional boxing.

Shalom has indicated that legal action could follow allegations that Zuffa Boxing signed and promoted fighters who were still contracted to BOXXER. During an interview with talkSPORT ahead of the Callum Simpson vs. Troy Williamson rematch, he delivered a sharp criticism of the new promotion.

“I think this is very similar to Infantino and the World Cup, as they are trying to change the fabrics of the sport,” Shalom said.

He argued that boxing needs fighters, promoters, governing bodies, and other organizations to operate within established rules.

“When you have guys who want to rip up the script on titles, bodies and not play within the rules you have a big problem,” he added.

Shalom also pointed to the UFC’s history with an antitrust lawsuit and warned that boxing could face similar disputes if the sport’s structure changes too aggressively.

He went even further by suggesting that boxing authorities should consider licensing action against fighters who compete under Zuffa Boxing.

“I think they need to sit down and consider taking the licenses from fighters who box on them shows. That would be the end,” he said.

Catterall Challenges Shalom

The discussion became tense when talkSPORT host Adam Catterall questioned Shalom’s concerns about Zuffa Boxing.

Shalom suggested the promotion could weaken traditional domestic routes, including championships such as the British title. Catterall responded by pointing out that Zuffa Boxing was targeting the major world sanctioning bodies instead.

“They aren’t going after the British titles though Ben,” Catterall said. “They are going after the lettered ones, the IBF, WBA, WBC and WBO.”

Shalom replied, “You’re gonna defend anything they do because it’s the UFC and Dana White.”

Instagram | adamcatterall | Adam Catterall clashed with Ben Shalom, arguing Zuffa Boxing targets world titles rather than undermining domestic belts.

Catterall rejected that accusation, saying, “I’m not defending anything, I’m just having a conversation with you.”

The exchange continued as Shalom questioned the financial motives behind the new promotion. “The reason why boxers earn so much money is because they take the money,” he said.

“This isn’t about creating a share holder value. This is a disgrace and I will call it.”

Shalom also claimed that he had discussed the issue with boxing’s governing bodies and that major organizations shared his concerns.

Catterall pushed back, saying, “Well of course they agree with what you’re saying because their business is under threat.”

Zuffa Boxing Faces Scrutiny

The disagreement highlights a larger debate over how professional boxing should develop. Zuffa Boxing is entering a sport with an established network of promoters, sanctioning bodies, contracts, and championship routes.

Shalom wants regulators to examine the promotion’s business practices, while Catterall questioned whether the criticism was partly driven by competition between rival promoters.

The dispute comes as Zuffa Boxing prepares for its 010 event in Dublin. With established figures such as Eddie Hearn and Frank Warren already operating in the sport, the arrival of White’s promotion could add another major force to an increasingly competitive boxing market.

The disagreement between Shalom and Catterall reflects the uncertainty surrounding Zuffa Boxing’s growing role. Shalom is calling for stronger oversight, while supporters of the new model may see greater competition as a way to reshape boxing’s business structure.

For now, the debate centers on contracts, fighter licensing, world titles, and who should control the direction of professional boxing. As Zuffa Boxing expands, those issues are likely to remain under close scrutiny.