TKO Group Ventures into Boxing with Saudi Arabia Partnership
In a groundbreaking move, TKO Group, the powerhouse behind WWE and UFC, has announced its entry into the boxing world through a multiyear partnership with Saudi Arabia. This collaboration, involving Turki Alalshikh, chairman of the Saudi General Entertainment Authority, and Sela, a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, marks a significant step in the kingdom’s sports expansion. The new boxing promotion, set to debut in 2026, will be managed by TKO, with UFC President Dana White and WWE President Nick Khan at the helm. While the promotion’s name remains under wraps, fighters can expect access to top-tier training facilities like the UFC Performance Institute in Las Vegas, Mexico City, and Shanghai. TKO will also handle event production, media, and global broadcasting, aiming to elevate boxing’s stature worldwide.
A Strategic Move to Revitalize Boxing
TKO President and COO Mark Shapiro emphasized the strategic potential of this partnership, stating, "This is a strategic opportunity to reimagine the sport of boxing globally." With TKO’s expertise in promotion and its established relationships in the sports industry, the collaboration with Turki Alalshikh and Sela is poised to bring boxing back to the forefront of global sports. The partnership reflects a shared vision to evolve the sport’s current model, leveraging TKO’s promotional prowess and Saudi Arabia’s financial muscle to create a fresh, dynamic platform for boxers and fans alike.
Saudi Arabia’s Ambitious Sports Agenda
This venture is the latest in Saudi Arabia’s aggressive foray into global sports, driven by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030. The kingdom has already made significant investments, hosting high-profile events like Formula 1 races, funding LIV Golf, and staging major boxing matches, including Tyson Fury’s victory over Francis Ngannou in 2023. Saudi Arabia is also in a 10-year deal with WWE and will host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, its most prized acquisition yet. These initiatives are part of a broader effort to modernize Saudi society and economy, with the Public Investment Fund, valued at $900 billion, playing a central role in these endeavors.
Criticism and Controversy Surrounding Saudi’s Sports Investments
While Saudi Arabia’s sports ventures have garnered attention, they have also sparked criticism. The kingdom has been accused of "sportswashing," a term used to describe the practice of using sports to improve a nation’s tarnished image. Critics argue that these investments aim to divert attention from Saudi Arabia’s human rights record and other contentious issues. Despite these criticisms, Saudi Arabia continues to expand its sports portfolio, with Turki Alalshikh recently purchasing Ring Magazine and organizing a major boxing event in Times Square on May 2, featuring top fighters like Ryan Garcia, Devin Haney, and Teofimo Lopez.
A New Era for Boxing
The partnership between TKO Group and Saudi Arabia promises to usher in a new era for boxing. With the resources and expertise of TKO and the financial backing of Saudi Arabia, the sport is poised for disruption and growth. As Alalshikh noted, "This landmark partnership sets the stage for an unparalleled experience for boxers and fans." The focus will be on developing the next generation of talent and delivering high-quality events, capitalizing on boxing’s potential for global appeal and transformation.
The Road Ahead
As the 2026 launch date approaches, anticipation builds for TKO’s new boxing promotion. While details remain scarce, the collaboration’s potential is undeniable. By combining TKO’s proven track record in promoting combat sports with Saudi Arabia’s strategic investments, this venture could redefine boxing’s landscape. Whether through state-of-the-art training facilities, global broadcasts, or innovative event production, TKO and Saudi Arabia are committed to bringing boxing to new heights, ensuring its place as a premier sport in the global arena. This partnership not only represents a business deal but a vision for the future of boxing, one that promises excitement, innovation, and a renewed commitment to the sport’s rich legacy.
