In a move that has raised eyebrows in the sports world, Turki Alalshikh, the head of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (GEA), has offered legendary boxer Mike Tyson a staggering $700 million if he defeats Jake Paul in a rematch.
This challenge comes after the controversial November fight between Tyson and Paul at AT&T Stadium, which left many fans frustrated with the outcome.
Alalshikh’s offer highlights the growing influence of Saudi Arabia in global sports, particularly in high-profile events involving celebrity figures. Alalshikh, a prominent adviser to the Saudi Royal Court, has been instrumental in organizing major sporting events, including international concerts and boxing matches.
His proposal to Tyson is part of a broader push to attract attention to Saudi Arabia’s role in shaping the international sports landscape.
Lucrative opportunity for Mike Tyson
Mike Tyson, who earned $20 million from the initial bout with Jake Paul, now faces the prospect of becoming one of the wealthiest boxers in history if he accepts Alalshikh’s challenge. The Saudi royal has promised Tyson a massive $700 million reward, contingent on his victory in a rematch that would need to be concluded by knockout within three minutes.
Alalshikh’s comments about the fight are pointed, stating, “Jake Paul is a joke. I am giving Mike Tyson $700 million if he agrees to fight Jake Paul this time in a real fight and wins by KO in a maximum of 3 minutes.”
Saudi Arabia’s strategic investment in global sports or sportswashing?
This latest development ties into the broader strategy of Saudi Arabia’s sports investments, which have been making headlines over the past few years. The Saudi government has been increasingly involved in international sports, spending billions to attract global talent and host world-class events. The $700 million offer to Tyson is in line with the kingdom’s broader push to position itself as a leading player in the global sports arena.
Saudi Arabia’s investments have led to accusations of “sportswashing”— using sports to improve the country’s international image. However, experts argue that these investments are part of a larger plan to diversify Saudi Arabia’s economy, increase tourism, and bolster its global reputation as a modern, progressive nation.
