Turki Alalshikh Opposes the Return of 15-Round Fights

Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority Chairman Turki Alalshikh has spoken out against the potential return of 15-round fights.

The idea had been previously supported by WBO super lightweight champion Teofimo Lopez (21-1, 13 KOs) and WBA President Gilberto Mendoza.

However, Alalshikh strongly opposes extending the number of rounds, arguing that it would pose serious health risks to boxers.

"No, I do not support this idea in any way. It’s bad for fighters' health, and I will never advocate for the return of 15-round fights.

In my opinion, even 12-round fights can be too much for a fighter’s well-being—15 rounds should not even be considered. Fifteen-round fights should not be allowed," Alalshikh stated.

Fifteen-round bouts were officially abolished by the WBC following a tragic incident in 1982. During a 15-round fight, South Korean boxer Duk Koo Kim fell into a coma in the ring and passed away four days later without regaining consciousness.

In response, the WBC reduced the standard fight length to 12 rounds.

By 1987-1988, the WBA and IBF also adopted the 12-round format, making it the global standard.