Earlier this year, Dana White sent shockwaves through the combat sports world with the announcement of his long-anticipated entry into boxing. Partnering with Saudi promoter Turki Alalshikh and operating under the UFC-WWE umbrella of TKO Holdings, White promised a bold reinvention of the sport. Although the promotion’s official name remains secret, they confirmed the league’s September 2025 launch in Las Vegas.
Anticipation skyrocketed when Canelo Álvarez signed a four-fight deal with Saudi officials, sparking widespread rumors that his first bout would be against pound-for-pound great Terence Crawford. The Mexican didn’t shy away from the buzz either, publicly expressing his interest in fighting under Dana White’s banner—adding fuel to the fire that he might headline the new promotion’s debut.
But in a surprising twist, the narrative took a different turn. On Sunday, His Excellency Turki Alalshikh took to X to announce a major development, signaling that Dana White may no longer be involved in the Canelo vs. Crawford showdown. Turki Alalshikh posted:
“We have confirmed the promoter for Canelo v Crawford will be Sela for Riyadh Season. The broadcaster we have not decided yet but the date will be Saturday 13th September. More details soon …”
We have confirmed the promoter for Canelo v Crawford will be Sela for Riyadh Season. The broadcaster we have not decided yet but the date will be Saturday 13th September. More details soon …
— TURKI ALALSHIKH (@Turki_alalshikh) May 18, 2025
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