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Who Is Turki Alalshikh? Saudi Royal Offers $700M for Tyson to Defeat Jake Paul

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Turki Alalshikh

image via x@Turki_alalshikh

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Mike Tyson might be stepping back into the ring for an extraordinary payday. Saudi Royal Turki Alalshikh has made headlines by offering Tyson an astronomical $700 million reward if he defeats Jake Paul in a rematch. The announcement follows the duo’s November fight, which, despite breaking records, left fans divided. Tyson previously pocketed $20 million for the bout, but this staggering offer could redefine his financial legacy in boxing.

Turki Alalshikh’s Proposal: A High-Stakes Challenge

The first fight between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul, held at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on November 15, 2024, became the most-streamed sporting event in history, amassing over 108 million live viewers globally. Despite the massive success, many fans expressed frustration over the bout’s pacing and outcome. Jake Paul emerged victorious via unanimous decision after eight rounds, with scores of 80-72, 79-73, and 79-73.

Seeking a rematch with higher stakes, Turki Alalshikh, head of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (GEA), announced an unprecedented incentive. Alalshikh is reported to have said, “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.”

Tyson’s potential reward dwarfs his previous earnings, positioning him among the wealthiest boxers in history if he accepts and wins the rematch.

A Look at Turki Alalshikh

Turki Alalshikh, often referred to as Turki Al-Sheikh, is a key figure in Saudi Arabia’s transformation into an entertainment and sports hub. Serving as an adviser to the Royal Court and the Chairman of the GEA, Alalshikh has played a pivotal role in bringing international sporting events and cultural spectacles to the kingdom. From concerts featuring global stars to hosting major boxing matches, his leadership has been central to Saudi Arabia’s growing prominence in the global entertainment industry.

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The initial clash between Tyson and Paul wasn’t just lucrative for the fighters—who split an $80 million prize purse—but also for the sport, as it shattered viewership records. Tyson showcased flashes of brilliance in the early rounds but ultimately fell short against the younger “Problem Child.” Jake Paul reportedly earned $40 million from the bout, solidifying his presence as a high-profile name in boxing.

If Tyson accepts Alalshikh’s proposal, the rematch promises not only unprecedented financial stakes but also the potential to eclipse the original fight’s massive global impact. Fans eagerly await Tyson’s decision and the prospect of another explosive showdown in the ring.

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Hi, I'm Shivam Kumar. I'm pursuing Journalism honors from the IP University. I love the skill of writing and looking forward to learn more of it. Also I love traveling and experiencing new things every day....

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