Oscar De La Hoya Calls Zuffa Boxing a “Failed Science Project”

Oscar De La Hoya is never shy with his words. This time, the former boxer, 53, aimed straight at Dana White and his new boxing venture. The Golden Boy CEO called Zuffa Boxing a “failed science project” and questioned its credibility in the sport.

He made the comments during his “Clapback Thursday” Instagram segment. The video quickly spread across boxing circles. Fans and insiders knew another chapter in this long feud had just begun.

The latest clash started after Dana White spoke at a press conference following the third Zuffa Boxing event. White took direct shots at De La Hoya. He questioned his business record and even raised foreclosure issues and disputes with fighters.

De La Hoya fired back with force. He accused White of calling people mentally ill just because they disagree with him. The former boxer said he has never seen someone believe they are winning while “doing nothing.” The tone was sharp, and it was personal.

This rivalry has simmered for years. It goes back to past disagreements when White criticized boxing as broken and outdated. De La Hoya has always defended the sport’s structure, even while acknowledging its flaws.

Oscar De La Hoya Slams Zuffa Boxing’s Model

De La Hoya / IG / De La Hoya attacked the core of Zuffa Boxing’s setup. He claimed he did not even know the third event was happening

According to him, the roster is packed with fighters past their prime or unable to reach elite status. He argued that real boxing thrives on rising prospects and established stars, not leftovers from other promotions.

Branding was another target. De La Hoya accused Zuffa Boxing of forcing fighters to wear generic shorts that strip away personality. He believes individuality sells fights. He thinks a fighter’s image matters just as much as their record.

For him, boxing is about identity. Trunks, ring walks, nicknames, and hometown pride all build a connection with fans. He suggested that a uniform look makes fighters blend together instead of standing out.

Then came the belt. De La Hoya mocked the new Zuffa Boxing championship title. He called it a made-up belt with no lineage. He even joked that his designer belt carries more history.

What Is Zuffa Boxing Trying to Build?

Zuffa / IG / Zuffa Boxing is led by Dana White and Saudi adviser Turki Alalshikh. It operates under TKO Group Holdings, the same company that controls UFC and WWE.

The plan is clear: Bring a structured, centralized model to boxing.

The promotion already secured a broadcast deal with Paramount+. It plans to hold 12 live events in 2026. Some of those events may also air on CBS. That kind of exposure could reshape how American audiences watch boxing.

White believes boxing needs control. He has long criticized the sport’s multiple sanctioning bodies and fractured promotional deals. He argues that fans want consistent matchmaking and clear champions.

De La Hoya sees it differently. He believes boxing’s freedom allows promoters to build unique brands and rivalries. And he thinks a single corporate structure could squeeze out creativity and tradition. This argument is about more than ego. It is about power. Boxing has always been messy but flexible. Zuffa Boxing promises order, but critics worry about control.

Broadcaster Max Kellerman, now part of the Zuffa Boxing team, defended the new model. He argued that traditional boxing has faded from U.S. network television.