Demand the United States Recognize Palestinian Statehood

Turki Alalshikh has sent shockwaves through the boxing world, blasting claims that Saudi Arabia is scaling back its investment in the sport. The Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority called the New York Times’ allegations untrue and promised the boxing calendar for 2026 will deliver surprises the industry has never seen before. The NYT report suggesting financial tightening and a slowdown across Saudi-backed boxing projects rattled promoters, fighters, and broadcasters alike. But Alalshikh’s response leaves no room for doubt: Saudi ambitions in boxing are bigger, louder, and more aggressive than ever. “100% not true,” he declared, adding: “Many surprises will be announced in 2026.” The words landed like a jolt. For an industry conditioned to seven-figure purses and spectacle-level events, even a whisper of reduced momentum can trigger chaos. Alalshikh’s statement doesn’t just deny — it asserts control. This is not a pullback; it is a declaration of intent. What Fans Needed to Hear Saudi Arabia has already rewritten the economics of modern boxing. Riyadh Season has delivered mega-cards, global streaming dominance, and record-breaking purses that transformed the sport overnight. WBN previously warned the boxing world was becoming reliant on one nation’s purse. Turki’s statement confirms: Saudi Arabia remains fully in control. The 2026 tease signals more than routine scheduling. Sources close to Saudi event planning suggest it could mean: Unleashing marquee fights never seen outside Saudi Arabia Launching innovative formats and global venues Staging heavyweight showdowns and championship events on a scale the sport has never witnessed In short, 2026 could be the boldest chapter in Saudi boxing history yet. Industry Reaction Fans and insiders told WBN Alalshikh’s statement instantly steadied nerves. Some criticized the NYT for stirring doubts while boxing thrives. Others remained cautious, recalling Turki’s prior promise to abolish Pay Per View, which did not transpire. For now, the reassurance is enough to calm uncertainty — but next year, the proof will be in the punches. The Takeaway Turki Alalshikh has drawn a line in the sand: Saudi Arabia is not stepping back. The 2026 calendar promises blockbuster fights, groundbreaking formats, and continued dominance in global boxing. The message is clear: bet on Saudi backing and ignore the noise. Saudi Arabia is bigger, bolder, and more ambitious than ever. The long-term caution WBN highlighted remains — boxing is still tethered to one nation’s purse and one visionary leader — but for now, the sport is in Turki’s hands. Saudi Arabia isn’t just playing the game — it’s owning it with a huge counterpunch. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside at the sport’s most significant events since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.

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