By Amílcar Barnett-
In the business side of the world of boxing promotion, the name Turki Alalshikh, “His Excellency”, as many refer to him, has emerged as a powerful force, almost out of nowhere. Just a few years ago, he was relatively unknown, but the Saudi billionaire has rapidly established himself as a significant player in the fight game, ambitiously using the considerable financial resources of the Saudi Arabian state to host highly anticipated fight cards that feature previously hard-to-make fights. This dramatic rise has changed not only the landscape of boxing, but it has also garnered international attention on Saudi Arabia as a central hub for major sporting events.
Recent reports highlight Alalshikh’s latest achievement — securing a contract with Japanese boxing superstar Naoya Inoue, often regarded as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters today. The deal is rumored to be worth almost $20 million and will presumably integrate Inoue into the Riyadh Season events. Alalshikh’s statement describing Inoue as “the best and strongest boxer of all time” showcases his ambition to not only promote boxing but select athletes who can bolster Saudi Arabia’s international image.
While the exact details of the partnership remain unclear—such as where Inoue will fight—one thing is evident: both parties see immense potential in this collaboration. Alalshikh has already demonstrated his capacity to put on significant events across various international arenas, including the UK and the US, which raises questions about whether Inoue may also showcase his talents in Japan or elsewhere.
Inoue’s Future and Potential Impact
Currently, Inoue is scheduled to face IBF mandatory challenger Sam Goodman in Japan on December 24th. This bout could set the stage for a broader discussion about his participation in the Saudi Arabian boxing scene. Inoue’s openness about potentially fighting in Saudi Arabia indicates a willingness to embrace the growing boxing landscape that Alalshikh is cultivating. However, Inoue’s promoter, Bob Arum, has his sights set on returning to Las Vegas next year, highlighting the competitive dynamics and differing perspectives in boxing promotion.
Inoue’s eloquent remarks about “timing” further underscore the complexities of fighter promotions and decision-making. As an athlete with a pristine 28-0 (25 KOs) record, his choices will undoubtedly influence his career trajectory. The prospect of Inoue making a grand appearance in Riyadh is tantalizing for both fans and emerging fighters, hinting at the potential of a new boxing epicenter.
Turki Alalshikh’s initiative is groundbreaking, especially considering the rapid establishment of Saudi Arabia as a new player in global sports. With his ambition, the continued partnership with fighters like Inoue could steer other prominent names in boxing toward similar opportunities. The question remains: how many more talented fighters will be drawn into Alalshikh’s orbit in the coming years?
As the fight game evolves, those like Alalshikh, who combine both business acumen and a passion for boxing, will shape its future. His ability to craft partnerships that not only financially benefit the athletes but elevate their brands speaks volumes about the potential new horizons in professional boxing. The arrival of this new era may not only change lives for individual fighters but also for the sport, bringing renewed interest and investment that can elevate boxing to unprecedented heights on a global scale.
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