‘Borderline racist’ comments on Saudi excellency Turki Alalshikh SETS OFF Eddie Hearn
Matchroom boss Eddie Hearn defends Saudi GEA chairman Turki Alalshikh following criticism after the “Battle of Britain“ last weekend.
Follow Us
Eddie Hearn defends Turki Alalshikh (Image via IMAGO/Instagram)
The Saudi General Entertainment Authority (GEA) has made a significant impact on the boxing industry through its venture, Riyadh Season. They are currently the most influential figures in the industry. However, some people are unhappy about a foreign company being involved in their country’s boxing scene. In response to this, Eddie Hearn recently defended the influence of Turki Alalshikh in professional boxing.
talkSPORT host Simon Jordan was seemingly unhappy with hosting boxing events in the UK as part of the Riyadh Season. The talkSPORT midweek show presenter’s criticism stemmed from his disapproval of the Saudi National Anthem being played at the “Battle of Britain“ fight night. Following that, Matchroom boss Eddie Hearn expressed his disappointment with Jordan’s actions.
What could you not have loved about Saturday night? What What ? Are you (Simon Jordan) not happy that someone from another country has put all of their efforts and time and money into delivering an iconic event for our country for British sport, for opportunites, for our fighters. What are you not happy about? I don’t understand. Are you saying they shouldn’t be here? What the f*ck it’s most ridiculous almost borderline racist point that you could possibly make…
Eddie Hearn via The Stomping Ground
According to Hearn, there shouldn’t be any backlash because larger considerations are at play, such as the success of their recent fight card. The “Battle of Britain“ between Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois set a new record with 98,128 attendees.
The Riyadh Season played a significant role in making the event at Wembley Stadium a success. Following these back-to-back successful events, the popularity of the Saudi GEA is increasing. As such, many prominent figures in the community have praised them. Eddie Hearn is one such individual who has constantly supported the Saudi GEA and built a strong relationship with Turki Alalshikh
The Matchroom boss has defended Alalshikh when necessary, including against criticism from Simon Jordan. Interestingly, Hearn is not the only one who has come to the defense of the Saudi Delegate in the recent controversy.
Queensberry CEO sheds light on the recent backlash towards Turki Alalshikh
Since the inclusion of Saudi GEA, several promoters have been eager to work with them to enhance the boxing scene. One of these promoters is Frank Warren, who seemed to appreciate Riyadh Season’s support for boxing events.
Interestingly, Warren promoted the grand heavyweight clash between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury with Saudi GEA’s support. Despite Fury, who is part of Warren’s stable, not winning the fight, they achieved significant financial success from it. The latest collaboration between Warren and Alalshikh was for the Joshua vs. Dubois fight.
Similar to Eddie Hearn, the Queensberry boss was also unhappy with the criticism that followed. In response, Warren went on a strong rant against the critics. He also emphasized the significance of their partnership with Riyadh Season and explained why the collaboration is essential.
You know a small minority of people complaining about a National Anthem being played. The clue is in the name, it’s called Riyadh Season, that’s why we were at Wembley because they enabled that huge events to be made… These type of events would not be able to be made without that financial input and it’s because of the love of boxing from His Excellency…
Frank Warren via Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol presser
The Queensberry boss also took a few subtle shots at Simon Jordan, who consistently criticized the Saudi GEA. Nevertheless, the Riyadh Season is preparing for another big fight card in October. The event will showcase exciting matchups, with Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol as the headliners. Apart from that, the fight card will feature boxers like Chris Eubank Jr. and Skye Nicolson.
Stay Updated!
Nilaav Gogoi
(550 Articles Published)