The new boxing promotion, backed by Saudi Arabia and led by UFC and WWE executives, plans to host 12 fight cards annually, including several high-profile superfights like the upcoming Canelo Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford event, with a launch set for September in Las Vegas.
The new boxing promotion, spearheaded by the UFC’s owners at TKO Group Holdings, is gearing up for an exciting launch. The first event is slated for September, featuring a superfight between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford in Las Vegas. Big names, big plans.
UFC CEO Dana White is on board as the promoter, with WWE president Nick Khan also involved. This new league, backed by Saudi Arabia and Turki Alalshikh, aims to make a splash with its debut card on September 12. Ambitious? You bet.
Mark Shapiro, TKO’s president, shared some insights during a financial call. They’re planning to host an average of 12 fights annually for the next five years. Working closely with Saudi partners, of course.
But wait, there’s more! In addition to regular cards, the league is plotting several “superfight” events each year. Canelo vs. Crawford is just the beginning. These bouts will likely be broadcast through a media partner.
Currently, TKO doesn’t have a broadcast partner, but that should be sorted out before the September launch. Details, details.
Interestingly, TKO assumes no financial risk here. Saudi Arabia is footing the bill. Shapiro emphasized that the 12 fight cards and superfights are separate entities. Distinct paths, distinct strategies.
“The Saudis are funding these superfight cards,” Shapiro explained. TKO will handle media rights, partnerships, ticketing, and production. Dana White and Nick Khan will lead the promotional efforts.
Despite being called TKO Boxing for now, Shapiro assured that this won’t be the official name. A new name is in the works, but mum’s the word for now. Stay tuned!