The president of the Saudi Arabian General Entertainment Authority, Turki Al-Alshikh, has made a decision that could change the course of professional boxing. After widespread criticism of fights with little action, such as the recent bout between Canelo Alvarez and William Scull, the leader announced that financial bonuses will be implemented for boxers who win by knockout in events under his organization.
During the official presentation of the fight between Canelo and Terence Crawford, scheduled for September 13 at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Al-Alshikh explained his position: “We are no longer going to have fights where one runs and the other chases him. In this and in our upcoming events, there will be a knockout bonus”. With this he seeks to encourage fighters to take risks and offer a better show to the public.
A response to criticism for fights without action
The announcement comes after a string of fights that left a bitter taste in the mouths of fans. The fight between Alvarez and Scull was noted for its lack of intensity: only 445 punches were thrown in 12 rounds, the lowest figure on record for a fight of that length. “We can’t support that kind of fight anymore with Riyadh Season and The Ring. We want boxers who give their all in the ring, who fight with heart and pride,” Al-Alshikh said.
This measure also aims to combat what the leader called “Tom and Jerry-type fights”, alluding to a style in which a boxer systematically avoids exchanges. From now on, events held under its auspices will reward risk with additional financial rewards, seeking to raise the level of spectacle and excitement in each event.
A new standard in global boxing?
Although the measure will only apply to events organised by the Riyadh Season project, its impact could be far-reaching. Turki is not an exclusive promoter of world boxing, but his growing influence in high-profile fights could put pressure on other organisers to adopt similar incentives. The knockout bonus does not have an official amount defined, but it is expected to be attractive enough to modify strategies in the ring.
In response to the initiative, Terence Crawford, known for his methodical and technical style, was clear: “I’m not going to let someone tell me how to fight. That’s how I’ve fought all my life. I won’t be running, that I can tell you, but I will be touching a lot,” he said during the press conference. With these words, he made it clear that the bonus will not change his approach, although he did not rule out going for a strong finish if the opportunity arises.
The new incentive promoted by Turki Al-Alshikh is part of his strategy to position Saudi Arabia as the epicenter of elite boxing. The intention is clear: to attract big names, raise the quality of the fights and prevent million-dollar fights from ending in gray spectacles. The upcoming showdown between Canelo and Crawford will be the first acid test for this system.
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