TKO Group Announces New Boxing Promotion in Saudi Arabia Partnership
TKO Group, known for its association with WWE and UFC, is launching a boxing promotion as part of a multiyear partnership with Saudi Arabia. The first event is scheduled for 2026, overseen by UFC and WWE executives. The collaboration reflects Saudi Arabia’s extensive investment in global sports, promoting boxing alongside a range of other events. Critics express concerns about potential “sportswashing” efforts by the kingdom.
TKO Group, recognized for its association with WWE and UFC, is launching a boxing promotion through a new multiyear partnership with Saudi Arabia. Announced on Wednesday, this collaboration involves Turki Alalshikh, chairman of the Saudi General Entertainment Authority, and Sela, a subsidiary of the Saudi Public Investment Fund. Dana White, UFC president and CEO, along with Nick Khan, president of WWE and TKO board member, will oversee the day-to-day operations of this promotion.
Set to initiate its first event in 2026, TKO has not yet disclosed the promotion’s name. It promises access to the UFC Performance Institute located in Las Vegas, Mexico City, and Shanghai for participating boxers. Additionally, TKO is responsible for event production, media, and promotion, ensuring worldwide broadcast reach.
Mark Shapiro, TKO’s president and COO, articulated the partnership’s strategic vision, stating, “This is a strategic opportunity to reimagine the sport of boxing globally.” The collective ambition between TKO and its Saudi partners aims to elevate boxing’s status within the global sports landscape.
Saudi Arabia has been rapidly investing in global sports initiatives, driven by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Their ventures include hosting a Formula 1 race, funding LIV Golf, holding multiple boxing events, and executing a decade-long arrangement to secure WWE entertainment.
As part of crown prince’s Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia earmarks substantial funding towards sports projects related to the upcoming 2034 World Cup. Critics of this investment strategy, often termed “sportswashing,” argue that it seeks to enhance the kingdom’s public image by leveraging high-profile sporting events and organizations.
Turki Alalshikh had acquired Ring Magazine recently and is set to present a boxing card on May 2 in Times Square. The main event features Ryan Garcia vs. Rolando “Rolly” Romero, while Devin Haney faces Jose Ramirez in the co-main, with Teofimo Lopez against Arnold Barboza Jr. concluding the card.
This venture reinforces Saudi Arabia’s positioning as a substantial player in the sports industry, collaborating with leading entities in mixed martial arts and professional wrestling. Alalshikh remarked, “This landmark partnership between industry powerhouses sets the stage for an unparalleled experience for boxers and fans.”
In summary, TKO Group’s new boxing promotion, in collaboration with Saudi Arabia, represents a significant venture in the world of sports. Led by prominent figures from UFC and WWE, the partnership aims to revitalize boxing on a global scale. With major investments in sports by the Saudi government, the initiative is indicative of the kingdom’s broader strategy under Vision 2030. Despite criticisms of attempting to enhance its global image, this partnership promises to deliver exceptional experiences for athletes and fans alike.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
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