TKO Holdings Group, the parent company of WWE and UFC, has officially entered the boxing world.
On Wednesday, TKO announced a multi-year partnership with Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (GEA) and entertainment conglomerate Sela to establish a new boxing promotion.
"This landmark partnership between industry powerhouses sets the stage for an unparalleled experience for boxers and fans," said Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of Saudi Arabia's GEA. "Together, we are developing the next generation of talent and delivering world-class events at a time when the sport is primed for further disruption."
While the name of the promotion has not been disclosed, TKO confirmed it will serve as the managing partner, with UFC President Dana White and WWE President Nick Khan holding executive leadership roles.
TKO President and COO Mark Shapiro described the venture as a "strategic opportunity to reimagine the sport of boxing globally."
"TKO has the deep expertise, promotional prowess, and longstanding relationships," Shapiro said. "HE Turki Alalshikh and Sela share our passion and vision for evolving the current model. Together, we can bring the sweet science back to its rightful place in the forefront of the global sports ecosystem."
Reports of TKO's boxing venture had been circulating for months, with Wrestling Observer Newsletter's Dave Meltzer previously suggesting White and Khan would play significant roles in the project.
TKO has expanded its portfolio beyond WWE and UFC in recent months, acquiring Professional Bull Riders and media companies IMG and On Location. With this latest move into boxing, the company aims to disrupt the sport and establish itself as a dominant force in combat sports promotion.
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