In a move that could shake up the combat sports world more than a steel chair to the head, TKO Group Holdings—parent company of WWE and UFC—is reportedly gearing up to launch a boxing league in partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). According to The New York Times, the deal could be announced within weeks, combining TKO’s management prowess with Saudi Arabia’s deep pockets for a knockout combination.
The Rundown
- The Players: Saudi Arabia’s PIF, through its subsidiary Sela, is investing heavily in the league, while TKO will serve as a managing partner.
- The Payday: TKO stands to earn $30 million annually in management fees, plus a stake in equity and revenue share.
- The Venues: While Saudi Arabia will foot the biggest hosting fees—reportedly exceeding $40 million for just two fights—the league also plans to stage bouts in the U.S. and Europe at a lower price tag.
This isn’t Saudi Arabia’s first attempt to step into the boxing ring. A previous effort to establish a multi-million-dollar league proved costly and complicated, but with TKO’s expertise in running WWE and UFC events, this venture might pack a bigger punch.
Strategic Knockout?
The timing of this deal is no coincidence. ESPN’s broadcasting agreements with UFC and rival Top Rank Boxing are set to expire this year. The speculation? TKO might offer ESPN—or another network—a package deal that includes UFC and this new boxing league. If successful, it could create a new combat sports juggernaut, much like the WWE-UFC merger that formed TKO in 2023.
What’s Next?
Whether this boxing league can deliver a heavyweight hit or ends up on the ropes remains to be seen. But with TKO, Saudi Arabia, and tens of millions of dollars at stake, it’s clear the gloves are off and the fight for combat sports supremacy is on.