In an interview done on TVweek.com, "Sugar" Ray Leonard was asked if he watched MMA competions such as the UFC, and if he was a fan.

Sugar's response: I do watch it. When I first saw it, I thought it was a bit much, but that was before they were regulated. Now I watch it and I like it.

I think what the UFC in particular has done, is something we haven’t done in a long time and that’s create superstars. Rampage Jackson is a character and a hell of a fighter, and you have other guys who stand out as well. That’s the key to success.

Most people don’t tune in to boxing to watch boxing, there has to be a story, personality, and style to bring in the masses. Of course, you have fans who watch no matter what, but to grow you need to have the package.