Saudi Arabia’s entertainment chief Turki Alalshikh believes the boxing world requires a Black heavyweight champion to recapture the sport’s golden era popularity, citing the transformative impact of Muhammad Ali’s generation.
Speaking candidly about boxing’s current challenges, Alalshikh, Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, addressed criticism of his influence on the sport while revealing ambitious plans for its future.
“I don’t usually talk about religion or skin color, but if we’re going to talk honestly — I think boxing would be in a very different place today if we had a Black heavyweight champion,” Alalshikh said.
The Saudi chairman pointed to boxing’s historic heyday as evidence: “Look at the 60s and 70s — it was the era of Muhammad Ali. There were three or four heavyweight legends at the same time.”
Alalshikh suggested that modern boxing faces stiff competition for athletic talent, with many potential stars choosing other sports. “Right now, many talented athletes go into the NFL or NBA. Boxing is often their last option — no money, no future, and high risks,” he explained.
Beyond his observations about demographic representation in the sport, Alalshikh revealed plans for a new boxing league in partnership with UFC chief Dana White and TKO’s Nick Khan.
“It’s not just us — I’m collaborating with all promoters. Right now, we’re launching major companies, a league together with Dana White — TKO, Nick Khan, all of them. It’s something incredible,” Alalshikh said. “I think it’ll launch either at the end of this year or early next — Dana has all the details.”
The Saudi official emphasized that this initiative aims to develop pathways for emerging talent. “It’s going to open doors for the younger generation, giving them a chance to become professional fighters,” he added.
Alalshikh also highlighted structural issues affecting boxing’s development: “There’s no unified organization, no central commission,” he noted, suggesting his partnerships aim to address these fundamental challenges.
