Turki Alalshikh is reshaping the boxing landscape with his substantial financial influence. He envisions boxing as featuring big stars putting on a quality show for fans, adhering strictly to the sport’s rules and traditions. However, that vision was challenged when Jake Paul entered the scene. Paul’s fight with Mike Tyson became a major topic of discussion in the boxing world, with widespread criticism. Alalshikh expressed his disapproval of the fight, arguing it didn’t align with boxing’s standards. He criticized the modified rules and the uneven matchup, stating, “Boxing is not 14 oz gloves, not two-minute rounds, not beating a legend at the age of your grandfather. 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.”
Alalshikh also discussed his interest in arranging a fight between Wladimir Klitschko and Tyson Fury in 2025, which would be a rematch from their first encounter nearly 10 years ago. This proposal raised some eyebrows since Klitschko, now 48, hasn’t fought in seven years and retired after consecutive defeats to Fury and Anthony Joshua. Nakisa Bidarian’s BAVAFA Sports responded to this proposal, questioning the legitimacy of bringing back Klitschko at 50 years old, post-retirement, to face one of the best current champions in the world.
Alalshikh’s statement about potentially making such a fight seems contradictory to his previous remarks on Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson. He expressed a desire to see Klitschko become the oldest heavyweight champion, aiming to break George Foreman’s record of 45. He noted, “I am dreaming to see this fight. To give a chance. If he accepts, for Klitschko to get back and have a chance to be the oldest heavyweight champion ever.” While the allure of money could tempt Klitschko back, the fans’ reception might not be favorable given the risks involved.
The discussion now centers on Alalshikh’s evolving stance on what constitutes legitimate boxing and whether a fight featuring an aging Klitschko holds any real merit after his previous criticisms of mismatched bouts like Paul vs. Tyson.