Golden Boy’s DAZN extension strengthens its position in Ortiz arbitration case
Vergil Ortiz Jr’s contract dispute shifts again after Golden Boy Promotions confirmed a new multi-year extension with DAZN, reinforcing the promoter’s position in ongoing arbitration.
Ortiz had pushed for a way out earlier this year, even stating his time with Golden Boy was “done,” while his team argued the expired DAZN deal opened the door to negotiate elsewhere. That argument now weakens with a fresh agreement in place.
Golden Boy confirmed the renewal on March 24, formalizing what had been expected in recent days. The deal extends a partnership that began in 2018 and keeps the promoter aligned with one broadcast platform as it approaches a decade.
U.S.-based boxing powerhouse Golden Boy and DAZN, the global home of boxing, today announced their partnership renewal to continue delivering championship-level boxing and developing the next generation of talent.
With a roster stacked with some of boxing’s biggest stars — including Ryan Garcia, Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez, Gabriela Fundora, Oscar Collazo and Floyd Schofield — Golden Boy will continue delivering blockbuster events year-round. Building on a partnership established in 2018, this extension brings the collaboration to nearly a decade, and features a medley of PPVs, World Championship Events and a contender series.
Golden Boy and DAZN have already built strong momentum in 2026, delivering three marquee events in the first quarter that showcased Golden Boy’s brightest stars and leading world title contenders. This year alone, Golden Boy celebrated Ryan Garcia winning the WBC world title, the return of former WBO Interim World Champion Arnold Barboza Jr., and title defenses by Unified Minimumweight World champion Oscar “El Pupilo” Collazo and Undisputed Flyweight World Champion Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora. The momentum continues into the second quarter of 2026 with a blockbuster Cinco de Mayo event live from Las Vegas featuring David Benavidez vs. Zurdo Ramirez.
“We’re firing on all cylinders right now,” said Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Oscar De La Hoya. “No one builds champions like we do. It’s a special formula mixed with a fighter’s talent, discipline and star power. As we approach a decade with DAZN, we’re going to keep setting the tone for the sport in 2026 and shaping the future of boxing.”
“We’re delighted to extend our partnership with Golden Boy,” said Pete Oliver, CEO Global Sports, DAZN. “Oscar and the team consistently deliver world-class events and develop some of the most exciting talent in boxing. This renewed agreement strengthens our shared commitment to growing the sport globally and giving fans unmatched access to unforgettable fight nights. We’re excited for what comes next.”
The timing cuts directly into Ortiz’s legal position. A judge had already issued a temporary ruling in Golden Boy’s favor, sending the case to arbitration and preventing Ortiz and manager Rick Mirigian from negotiating elsewhere, including a reported three-fight deal with Matchroom worth around $20 million.
With the DAZN extension now formalized, Golden Boy’s claim that its contractual framework remained active gains strength, making it more difficult for Ortiz to secure a release.
Ortiz entered 2026 in sharp form, stopping Erickson Lubin in the opening round and moving into the super welterweight title mix. His momentum has slowed outside the ring.
The contract situation now comes down to arbitration, and the broadcast deal strengthens Golden Boy’s hand.
A route back to Jaron Ennis remains possible. A co-promotion between Golden Boy and Matchroom on DAZN would keep that fight viable, while any shift away from the platform would have complicated negotiations.
For now, Ortiz is held in place, and the business side is dictating the next move more than anything happening in the ring.