Riyyah / International Ringside, September 2025 — Ahead of the high-profile boxing match between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford, Saudi boxing authorities have introduced new incentive bonuses for the undercard fighters, signaling increasing Saudi involvement in global boxing promotion. TalkSport
What’s Changed
- Bonus Structure for Undercard: Under Saudi initiative, undercard bouts will feature $100,000 bonuses for “Performance of the Night” and “Fight of the Night,” awarded to standout fighters among those matches. These are separate from the main-event bonuses or guarantees. TalkSport
- Talent & Matchups: The undercard features a number of rising boxers, including noteworthy matchups such as Callum Walsh vs Fernando Vargas Jr., Christian Mbilli vs Lester Martinez, and other international fighters. Also, Saudi fighter Mohammed Alakel appears on the card. TalkSport
Why It’s Important
- Elevating the Undercard
Boxing promotions often rely heavily on the main event for attention, but undercards are vital for discovering new talent. By attaching substantial bonuses, Saudi backing is elevating the undercard’s stakes, incentivizing more competitive performances, and drawing greater attention to these fighters. - Deepening Saudi’s Role in Boxing Investments
This is consistent with Saudi Arabia’s increasing footprint in global boxing – from promoting major events to backing fight infrastructure, media rights, and fighter incentives. It shows not only financial muscle but strategic targeting of how those funds are used for greater impact. - Global Talent Exposure
For lesser-known fighters, a bonus scheme like this means more visibility (fans will want to see who wins these “night” bonuses), possibly more lucrative future matches, and greater audience interest. It’s a way for Saudi investment to generate positive publicity beyond just signing big names.
Challenges & What to Monitor
- Fairness and Transparency: How will the bonus selections be judged? Who picks “Fight of the Night” or “Performance of the Night”? Clear criteria will be important to avoid controversies.
- Sustainability: Is this a one-time bonus offer tied to this marquee fight, or part of a broader strategy of offering such incentives across many events in Saudi-backed boxing?
- Fighter development: How are local Saudi boxers being supported to reach these platforms? Bonus incentives help, but underlying training, coaching, promotion, and matches are required for long-term growth.