Turki Alalshikh Tops Sports Illustrated’s List of the Most Influential Figures in Boxing for 2024

HE Turki bin Abdulmohsen Alalshikh, Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), has been named the most influential figure in the world of boxing for 2024, according to the American magazine Sports Illustrated (SI), one of the most prominent sports publications in the United States.

The magazine, a longstanding authority in the sports world with a history spanning over 70 years, released its annual list of the most powerful and influential figures for the year. Alalshikh claimed the top spot, ahead of heavyweight world champions Tyson Fury from Britain and Oleksandr Usyk from Ukraine, as well as Rakan Al-Harthi, Managing Director of Sela.

The list also featured two of the most prominent boxing promoters globally, Eddie Hearn and Frank Warren from Britain, alongside Mauricio Sulaiman, President of the World Boxing Council (WBC).

The magazine praised Turki Alalshikh’s efforts in promoting boxing globally, stating:

“His work in 2024 reached unprecedented heights, earning him recognition as one of the most influential figures in the sport. Like the greatest boxers, he is driven by his love for his country, and his sporting goals are integral to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.”

The report highlighted Alalshikh’s pivotal role in negotiating and organizing major boxing bouts that were previously deemed impossible, as well as his success in resolving disputes among top boxing promoters. It also emphasized his innovative promotional strategies, which captured the attention of boxing fans worldwide, bringing the “Riyadh Season” brand to the global stage by organizing major boxing events in Los Angeles and London.

Sports Illustrated affirmed that 2024 will be remembered as a remarkable year, thanks to the achievements realized through Riyadh Season events, which featured historic bouts between boxing superstars in front of massive audiences in Saudi Arabia and abroad.

This recognition adds to a series of accolades Alalshikh has received this year, including ranking first on the Independent newspaper’s list of the 50 most influential figures in boxing and mixed martial arts (MMA). He also topped ESPN’s list as the most influential figure in MMA and professional wrestling.

Additionally, the World Boxing Council (WBC) awarded its “Man of the Year” honor to HE Turki Alalshikh during an awards ceremony earlier this month, in appreciation of his significant contributions to the development and promotion of boxing on a global scale.

These initiatives stem from the unwavering and unparalleled support of HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030.

which places extraordinary emphasis on sports. The vision aims to promote a healthy lifestyle, develop sports infrastructure, and attract global events, contributing to sustainable development and enhancing the Kingdom’s position on the international stage.