Boxing Lacks UFC Structure, Says Edgar Berlanga

In a conversation with the Danza Project, he made a rather controversial statement about boxing while comparing it to the UFC.

“I feel like that’s what boxing lacks is the structure behind everything,” he said without an ounce of hesitation.

According to an April 8 announcement, Berlanga , who was looking to rebound from his July 2025 loss against Hamzah Sheeraz, signed a multi-fight deal with Zuffa Boxing, along with super lightweight world champion Richardson Hitchins. In fact, a debut is scheduled for Summer 2026.

Zuffa essentially runs on a centralized structure similar to the UFC. That means one organization controlling key pieces, signing fighters to exclusive contracts, running its own rankings, making fights in-house, and potentially having a single championship per division instead of multiple sanctioning bodies. This, in turn, creates a clear ladder; fighters move up, earn title shots, and big fights are easier to make because everything sits under one system instead of being split across rival promoters, networks, and governing bodies. In theory, this is exactly opposite to what is seen in modern boxing, with a seemingly fragmented game where promoters and sanctioning bodies leave fighters at the mercy of their inner conflicts.

According to Berlanga, compared to the UFC model, boxing lacks a clear path; one can essentially be a contender and still not get the fights fans want because of business politics.

“It’s just the structure is just amazing. That’s why they have big sponsorships,” he said. “With Dana, he’s more about building a brand and building fighters up.”

“Zuffa Boxing is Changing The Game”

Berlanga is convinced that Zuffa is strongly changing the sport for the better. In a statement after signing, he expressed appreciation for what the promotion meant and the opportunities it offered.

“Zuffa Boxing is changing the game. I’m here for the biggest fights on boxing’s best platform. I’m here to put the super middleweight division on notice. ‘The Monster’ is back! Thank you to Dana White, Nick Khan, and the entire Zuffa Boxing team for believing in my talent,” he said. “I also want to thank my father, Edgar Berlanga Sr., and my manager, Keith Connolly, for always guiding me in the right direction, and this move is no different. This is going to be a special journey.”