When Saudi Arabia steps into the world of boxing, it’s not just another match—it’s a game-changer. The Kingdom’s significant investment in the sport is breaking down barriers and creating unprecedented opportunities for collaboration among promoters who, in the past, might have been at odds.
A New Era of Collaboration in Boxing
As the boxing world gears up for the monumental ‘Riyadh Season: Wembley Edition’ featuring Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois, Frank Smith, CEO of Matchroom Boxing, shares his insights on the transformative impact Saudi Arabia is having on the sport. Scheduled for September 21st in London, this event is expected to draw a record-breaking crowd of 96,000 fans, showcasing the magnetic pull of the Kingdom’s involvement.
Turki Alalshikh, the visionary chairman of Saudi’s General Entertainment Authority, has rapidly risen as a central figure in boxing. By leveraging Saudi Arabia’s ample resources, he has not only staged high-profile fights but also fostered a spirit of unity among promoters who have historically been adversaries. This collaborative atmosphere is evident in the upcoming UK event, which follows successful Riyadh Season cards in cities like Los Angeles.
Smith acknowledges the role Saudi Arabia’s financial backing plays in facilitating these super fights. “[Saudi Arabia] want to see great fights,” he expresses. Alalshikh’s efforts have removed ego from the equation, uniting promoters to focus on what truly matters—bringing the best fighters together on the global stage.
Balancing Independence and Investment
The Kingdom’s engagement with renowned promotional companies, including Matchroom, Queensbury, and others, has sparked a new era of cooperation, seen in the budding partnership between Eddie Hearn of Matchroom and Frank Warren of Queensbury. This collaboration paves the way for future mega-fights, such as the much-anticipated Joshua vs. Fury bout in 2025.
Despite these developments, Smith stresses the importance of maintaining independence. Matchroom plans to continue organizing smaller events to nurture emerging talent and avoid over-reliance on Saudi investments. “We’re always going to be competitors,” Smith remarks, emphasizing the need for promoters to deliver compelling content independently of Riyadh Season events.
By leveraging the Kingdom’s investments, promoters can reinvest in the sport’s future, ensuring a steady stream of new talent. Smith is optimistic that these efforts will yield long-term benefits for boxing, providing a solid foundation for the next generation of fighters.
The Future of Boxing: Opportunities and Challenges
While the idea of a PIF-backed boxing league remains speculative, Smith is open to innovations that could further enhance the sport. He acknowledges the complexity of creating a centralized boxing league, akin to the UFC model, but remains hopeful about the possibilities. “In boxing there’s so many opportunities and options for fighters,” he notes, recognizing the challenges but also the potential for growth.
Saudi Arabia’s strategic involvement is already making waves, and the future looks bright for boxing as it continues to evolve under this new paradigm. The Kingdom’s commitment to the sport is clear, and its influence is poised to shape boxing’s landscape for years to come.
