WWE’s parent company, TKO Holdings Group, made headlines beyond the wrestling world with its latest venture. It was officially announced that the company is partnering with Saudi Arabian entity Sela and Saudi Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority Turki Alalshikh to launch a new, yet-to-be-named boxing promotion.
While UFC President Dana White and WWE President Nick Khan are expected to play significant roles in this venture, not much else has been revealed. However, what caught the attention of many was Alalshikh’s recent praise of former WWE Chairman Vince McMahon, calling him one of the greatest promoters of all time—a statement that has fueled speculation about McMahon’s involvement in the project.
Dave Meltzer on McMahon’s Possible Role in Boxing Promotion
On the latest episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, veteran journalist Dave Meltzer addressed Alalshikh’s comments and how they have led to speculation about McMahon’s future in the industry.
"I've seen speculation already about Vince McMahon being back in the game," Meltzer noted. "I don't know. I mean... Vince does want to promote outside entertainment. Not professional wrestling, because he knows he can't go against WWE... I don't know, entertainment, maybe boxing. Maybe they'll get Vince into the boxing thing. That way it's not the wrestling [business]. I don't know.," as qouted by Wrestlinginc
Meltzer also pointed out the deep ties between McMahon and Alalshikh, suggesting that the former WWE chairman played a pivotal role in the early stages of this new combat sports partnership.
"It's going to be interesting. He's [Turki] the one guy, I mean, Vince and him have a very good relationship. Vince was the one who got UFC involved, and TKO involved in this thing before he got booted out," Meltzer explained. "Vince was the conduit who essentially brought Dana White and Turki together. And, you know, Nick Khan and everyone. So there you go. I mean he's... not part of this now, but he's the key guy in the background of bringing these guys together."
Could Vince McMahon Make a Comeback in Sports Promotion?
While McMahon is no longer officially involved with TKO following his departure, his influence in the industry remains undeniable. His role in facilitating key partnerships between TKO, UFC, and Saudi investors raises questions about whether he could re-enter the world of sports promotion—this time in boxing rather than professional wrestling.
As the details of this new boxing organization unfold, the speculation surrounding McMahon’s potential involvement is likely to continue. Whether he stays on the sidelines or finds a new way to make an impact in the combat sports industry remains to be seen.