Turki Alalshikh: “Heavyweight Division Needs a Black Champion”

Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, Turki Alalshikh, shared his thoughts on the future of boxing and addressed criticism aimed at the sport’s transformation under his guidance. He also commented on the upcoming launch of a boxing league in partnership with Dana White.

– When you see all these shows happening and tweets saying, ‘You're harming boxing’ or things like that — does it affect you, considering some say you’ll never make boxing the No. 1 sport?

– 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. I think it’ll launch either at the end of this year or early next — Dana has all the details. It’s going to open doors for the younger generation, giving them a chance to become professional fighters.

Now, 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.

Look at the 60s and 70s — it was the era of Muhammad Ali. There were three or four heavyweight legends at the same time.

Right now, many talented athletes go into the NFL or NBA. Boxing is often their last option — no money, no future, and high risks.

We want to change that. There’s no unified organization, no central commission, said Alalshikh.