Story byPhoto by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLCAaditya KrishnamurthyThu, January 22, 2026 at 8:30 AM UTC·2 min readDana White has responded to speculation linking Oleksandr Usyk with Zuffa Boxing, providing a clear update during the UFC 324 press conference. UFC CEO Dana White was asked whether Oleksandr Usyk could be the next major fighter to sign with his new boxing promotion. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThe discussion followed comments from Usyk’s team, who revealed that talks with Zuffa Boxing executives had already begun. Sergey Lapin, director for Team Usyk, told TalkSport Bet that “dialogue had taken place” between both sides. Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLCDana White outlines Zuffa Boxing recruitment strategyDuring the UFC 324 press conference, Dana White explained that Zuffa Boxing’s recruitment plan is focused on building a long-term roster of elite fighters. When responding to reports of Zuffa Boxing signing Oleksandr Usyk, he said the organisation aims to attract both proven champions and emerging talent.“We’re talking to everybody that we think are the most talented people in the world, or have the potential to be the most talented people in the world,” White said. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementWhite’s comments suggest that while Oleksandr Usyk remains a target, Zuffa Boxing’s broader focus is on sustained growth rather than one-off signings. The approach mirrors how White built the UFC into a global combat sports powerhouse. Zuffa Boxing focused on elite-level signingsZuffa Boxing officially launched this month with Dana White and WWE President Nick Khan leading the promotion. Its first event, Zuffa Boxing 01, streams on Paramount+ and features Callum Walsh vs. Carlos Ocampo as the headline bout. The company has already secured Jai Opetaia, one of boxing’s top pound-for-pound fighters, as its first marquee signing. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementAdding Oleksandr Usyk would mark a significant step as Zuffa Boxing positions itself alongside established global promotions. Usyk remains part of that conversation, but any deal will depend on timing and alignment with Zuffa Boxing’s future plans. Read more:Dana White reportedly in talks to bring Oleksandr Usyk to Zuffa BoxingOleksandr Usyk challenged by champion he once presented a belt to after brutal KODeontay Wilder names the hardest puncher he has faced amid Oleksandr Usyk links.