Dirty Boxing, a combat sports promotion founded in 2024, has come under scrutiny with allegations of fraud from the Italian media outlet Upfront MMA. The promotion, co-owned by former <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/mma/ufc/”>UFC star Jon Jones and BKFC champion Mike Perry, operates with a unique rule set combining open-palm strikes and elbows. Despite gaining early momentum and fan interest, the organization now faces serious accusations that threaten its growing reputation.
Upfront MMA, which has a significant following on social media, publicly warned others to be cautious when dealing with Dirty Boxing. Their outspoken condemnation included a posted message stating,
“Do business with Dirty Boxing at your own risk.”
Further intensifying the situation, the media outlet accused Dirty Boxing of unethical behavior, claiming,
“Word is these losers are asking other influencers to promote their next event. They ripped me off and I have receipts. If you advertise their event after seeing this you are re—ded lol @DirtyBoxing_ #DBX3 @icebagz_ let’s fight on your card! F–k you too @PlatinumPerry.”
Mike Perry Responds to Fraud Claims with Defiant Messages
Amid the escalating controversy, Mike Perry took to social media, offering a calm but reflective message that expressed gratitude and sought strength in faith. This was met with a direct response from Upfront MMA, which accused Perry of taking advantage of others by saying,
“You have great times by burning others.”
In turn, Perry replied by naming Tony Pansellini as the individual behind the Upfront MMA account, stating,
“Tony Pansellini, you look like Covington’s uncle or something.”
While Perry engaged directly with his critics, Jon Jones has yet to make any public statements regarding the accusations. Fans and observers remain attentive, awaiting his perspective on the unfolding dispute which threatens the stability of Dirty Boxing’s brand.
Origins and Structure of Dirty Boxing Promotion
The Dirty Boxing promotion held its inaugural event, DBX 1, in Miami in March 2024, featuring a headline fight between Yoel Romero and Ras Hylton. The matches are contested with 5-ounce gloves, recently upgraded from the initial 4-ounce gloves, and take place inside a custom-sized 18-foot ring, which is smaller than the standard boxing ring dimensions. Non-title fights adopt three-minute rounds, whereas title bouts extend to five rounds.
Founded by Mike Perry along with his longtime managers, the Kawa brothers, and industry veterans Adam Kovacs and Josh McLean, Dirty Boxing seeks to blend traditional combat sports with innovative rules. Jon Jones joined as a co-owner earlier this year, engaging closely by attending events and helping promote the brand. This combination of UFC experience and fresh rule sets aims to attract dedicated combat sports fans searching for new entertainment options.
Jon Jones’ Upcoming Promotions and UFC Return Rumors
After an extended hiatus of nearly 800 days, Jon Jones officially parted ways with the UFC heavyweight division, leaving interim champion Tom Aspinall without the anticipated unification match against him. Jones’ absence generated criticism toward UFC president Dana White and the organization’s leadership. Recently, however, Jones reestablished communication with White, who confirmed their phone conversation took place.
The announcement by former U.S. President Donald Trump of a potential UFC visit to the White House in 2026, celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, appears to have influenced Jones’ decision to resume his fighting career. Alongside this comeback, Jones is actively promoting Dirty Boxing’s upcoming event, DBX 3, set for August 29 at The Hangar in Miami. This card will feature the first-ever heavyweight title fight in Dirty Boxing history—a bout between the undefeated fighter known as The Wolf, who holds a 3-0 record in Dirty Boxing, and Jairzinho Rozenstruik.
Jones conveyed his enthusiasm for the event, declaring,
“History is being made at Dirty Boxing – and I couldn’t be more proud. On August 29th, Dirty Boxing 3 takes over The Hangar in Miami, and we’re bringing you the first-ever Heavyweight Title fight in Dirty Boxing history.”
He further described The Wolf as “undefeated, aggressive, and relentless,” promising a contest marked by intense violence.
Dirty Boxing’s Place in the Combat Sports Landscape and Future Prospects
The emergence of Dirty Boxing follows broader trends in combat sports, where newer promotions attempt to carve out niche audiences with innovative formats. Since the post-COVID era, the industry has expanded, welcoming entrants like Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian, who leverage social media to build their brands. However, amid such growth, the sport remains dominated by longtime pioneers such as Dana White in UFC and Frank Warren in boxing.
Dirty Boxing’s hybrid rule set, combined with its compact ring and roster featuring UFC veterans, poses an intriguing alternative for fans. Yet, the recent fraud accusations and public disputes threaten to stall its progress at a critical growth stage. These controversies highlight the challenges newer promotions face when trying to compete at a high level while maintaining credibility and trust across the community.
With Jones preparing for a return to the UFC and pushing Dirty Boxing forward, the coming months will be pivotal for the promotion’s reputation. Whether it can overcome these early scandals and find a loyal audience remains uncertain, but the involvement of high-profile fighters and managers signals serious intent within this dynamic segment of combat sports.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What did Jon Jones test positive for?
A. During the hearing, it came out that Jones tested positive for clomiphene and letrozole metabolites. These are in Tadalafil, a drug for erectile dysfunction that Jones admitted to using.
Q. What has Jon Jones tested positive for?
A. He was found to have Turinabol, a type of steroid, in his system. Because of this, he was temporarily suspended.