New York, United States — Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority and President of the Saudi Boxing Federation, has confirmed that Canelo vs. Crawford is the most expensive fight in boxing history. His announcement reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in global sports promotion.
Saudi Arabia secures Netflix broadcast for Canelo vs. Crawford
Speaking at the second official press conference in New York, Alalshikh thanked his partners and emphasized the scale of the event.
“I would like to thank my partner, Dr. Rakan Al-Harthy from Sela, as well as the two legends, Crawford and Canelo,” he said. “Finally, this event is happening, and we are happy because you are happy.”
Alalshikh also announced that Saudi Arabia secured an exclusive global broadcast deal with Netflix for the fight.
“This decision was driven by the conviction of one man who convinced me to take this step, and he is with us here today,” Alalshikh stated. “Please join me in welcoming Mr. Nick Khan from TKO Group (WWE).”
He acknowledged Netflix CEO Bela Bajaria, adding: “I know I caused her a lot of pressure, but she must understand I am with her and I support her.”
The press conference, originally planned for May 16, was delayed due to technical matters. Alalshikh explained, “I made this deal for Nick Khan.”
Record-breaking contract highlights Saudi boxing ambitions
Negotiations for broadcast rights involved several global platforms. Alalshikh confirmed Netflix was chosen for its reach and influence.
“We had two major platforms on the table with huge contracts, but we chose Netflix because it is the largest platform in the world,” he said. “I am confident this is just the beginning of a major strategic partnership.”
Alalshikh confirmed the fight holds the largest contract in boxing history. However, he declined to reveal financial figures.
“Understand that this is now the most expensive contract in boxing history. I will not reveal the numbers and leave the stage to the legends in the ring,” he added.
Canelo vs. Crawford: A strategic milestone for Saudi boxing
The highly anticipated fight, scheduled for September 13 during Riyadh Season, features Mexican boxer Canelo Álvarez against American champion Terence Crawford for the super middleweight title.
Canelo praised Crawford’s abilities and Alalshikh’s role in making the fight happen.
“Crawford is one of the greatest fighters in recent years,” Canelo said. “Turki Alalshikh requested this fight many times, and that’s why we are here today.”
Crawford expressed confidence ahead of the event: “This is a great fight for the fans. I’ll be honest, I’m on the hunt. Everything on the table, I will take it. On September 13, I will take it all.”
The New York press event follows the Riyadh Season launch of the global media tour, which is making its final promotional stop in Las Vegas. The tour has generated significant international media attention, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s role in hosting major global sports events.
The Saudi Standard’s View: Breaking Records Without Breaking the Model
The Canelo vs. Crawford fight represents more than a record-breaking payday. It reflects how Saudi Arabia is reshaping global sports economics without overhauling existing structures. Saudi officials are maximizing commercial and geopolitical returns by embedding the world’s most expensive fight within Riyadh Season.
The key elements are the prize purse and the broadcast strategy. Partnering with Netflix bypasses legacy sports networks and consolidates entertainment and sport under a unified platform. This mirrors Saudi Arabia’s preferred development model: controlled risk, high visibility, and alignment with national soft power objectives.
The fighters and boxing bodies benefit financially, but the structural impact is broader. Saudi Arabia is exporting its entertainment model to the global stage, without dismantling the foundations of elite sports.
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