Turki Alalshikh’s Bold Statement on the State of Modern Boxing: “Do Not Name it Boxing”

In a powerful and thought-provoking statement, Turki Alalshikh, the influential billionaire and sports mogul, has weighed in on the growing trend of celebrity boxing matches, specifically criticizing the commercialization and entertainment-driven nature of the modern boxing scene. Alalshikh, known for his role in bringing large-scale sporting events to Saudi Arabia, has always been an advocate for preserving the integrity of traditional sports, particularly boxing.

“Boxing is not 14oz gloves, not two-minute rounds, not beating a legend at the age of your grandfather,” Alalshikh declared. “Boxing is not like this. Do not name it boxing please. I am not against it – name it a show, entertainment, but do not name it boxing.”

The statement comes as the sport of boxing has been increasingly dominated by exhibitions and high-profile celebrity matches, such as those between YouTube stars and former professional athletes. The rise of Jake Paul and his matches against former champions like Tyson Fury and even legends such as Mike Tyson has sparked debate within the boxing community about the authenticity and respect for the sport’s history.

Alalshikh’s comments reflect his frustration with the current direction of boxing, where entertainment often takes precedence over athleticism and competition. He argues that the essence of boxing—its brutal intensity, its history, and the skill required to compete at the highest level—has been diluted by the influx of celebrity exhibitions that seem more like spectacles than serious athletic contests.

For Alalshikh, boxing is about skill, endurance, and the honor of competing against the very best in the sport. It’s about long rounds, competitive intensity, and going up against formidable opponents—not fighting in short rounds with oversized gloves for the sake of a social media following or entertainment value.

While Alalshikh is not necessarily opposed to the phenomenon of celebrity boxing itself, he makes it clear that it should not be confused with the real sport of boxing. He urges those involved to respect the traditions and the athletes who have spent years perfecting their craft. If these new forms of boxing are to continue, he suggests, they should be categorized as “shows” rather than as part of the official sport of boxing.

This bold statement from Alalshikh has sparked a wider conversation about the future of boxing. Will the sport return to its roots, or will it continue down a path where the lines between true athletic competition and entertainment blur? Alalshikh’s comments remind us that boxing is much more than just a spectacle—it’s a demanding, prestigious sport that deserves to be treated with respect, history, and integrity.