Shakur Stevenson Misnamed on UFC 329 Broadcast-Mistake Sparks Outcry

On July 11, 2026, UFC 329’s live broadcast incorrectly labeled undefeated boxer **Shakur Stevenson** as Oklahoma City Thunder guard **Jalen Williams**, igniting a fiery response from UFC CEO Dana White and raising fresh concerns about the promotion’s graphics team.

During the main‑card event, cameras caught Stevenson seated in the arena’s audience. Instead of displaying his name, the lower‑third graphic read “Jalen Williams,” a clear case of mistaken identity. The error resurfaced in the post‑fight press conference, where White lambasted his own production crew for the slip‑up, calling the mistake “the worst ever to do it.”

Stevenson, fresh off his Zuffa Boxing signing, was slated to make a high‑profile debut in the UFC‑owned arena. Misidentifying him not only undermines his brand launch but also risks confusing fans about his crossover into mixed‑martial‑arts promotion events. The blunder spotlights the challenges athletes face when stepping outside their primary sport’s spotlight.

White’s rant, captured on the broadcast, emphasized the irony of a “top‑notch” production that “can’t figure this celebrity thing out.” He promised internal reviews and hinted at tighter graphics protocols for future events. The incident follows a similar slip two years earlier, when UFC 306 mislabeled boxing legend Terence Crawford as rapper Kendrick Lamar.

Stevenson’s next fight remains scheduled for later this year, with his team reportedly negotiating additional promotional appearances. The mislabel may spur the UFC to ensure his name appears correctly in upcoming events, protecting his marketability as the sport’s newest crossover star. Fans and analysts will watch closely to see if the promotion tightens its graphics workflow before Stevenson’s next high‑visibility outing.