Shocking TKO Boxing Salary Leak: Turki Alalshikh Responds – Is This the Revolution Boxing Has Been Waiting For?

March 20, 2025 The recent leak of salary details surrounding Dana White and Turki Alalshikh’s new venture, TKO Boxing, has sent shockwaves through the boxing world. While the news might excite up-and-coming fighters, many of the sport’s biggest stars aren’t thrilled with the reported pay structure. With speculation already surrounding the league’s future, let’s dive into the controversy surrounding the leaked salaries and what this means for boxing’s future.

TKO’s Pay Structure: A Double-Edged Sword

The leaked details, as reported by Boxing Scene, reveal a pay structure that is designed to incentivize young, unproven fighters, but may leave top-tier talent dissatisfied. According to the contract, purses are structured around fighters’ rankings within the promotion, which could be appealing for those seeking to make a name for themselves. However, the pay scales will not attract boxing’s elite, such as Gervonta Davis, Canelo Alvarez, or other renowned champions.

The pay breakdown is as follows:

• $20,000 for a 10-round bout by an unranked fighter.
• $50,000 for fighters ranked No. 5 to No. 10 by the company.
• $125,000 for fighters ranked No. 3 or No. 4.
• $375,000 for fighters challenging for the company championship.
• $750,000 for defending the company championship.

The controversy lies in the fact that these amounts are nowhere near the millions the top fighters earn in other promotions. While the structure is appealing for those with less experience, it falls short for high-caliber athletes who already rake in huge earnings from their established brands.

Alalshikh’s Denial: Fact or Fiction?

Responding to the leak, Turki Alalshikh has called the reported figures “factually inaccurate,” though the exact points of contention remain unclear. The leaked pay scale document has stirred up the boxing community, with many wondering which aspects are incorrect. While Alalshikh’s denial raises questions, the details, if true, present a model that differs significantly from traditional boxing promotions.

The focus on up-and-coming boxers seems to be at the heart of this new pay structure, allowing them to rise through the ranks and potentially earn more as they progress. The contract also includes a three-year commitment, where fighters must agree to remain under contract for two years after their first bout.

The “TKO” Model: A Long-Term Vision for Boxing

Despite the controversy over pay, TKO Boxing’s strategy could be a game-changer for the sport. With the league not expected to launch until 2026, there is time for the organization to scout talent and develop fighters into household names. The key to success will lie in the promotion’s ability to build these fighters from the ground up, similar to the UFC’s model of developing fighters and expanding their profiles.

TKO Boxing will likely lean heavily on influencers and marketing strategies to generate interest in its fighters, showcasing their personal stories and creating compelling narratives that resonate with fans. If executed well, this could give new fighters the platform they need to build a fanbase and secure higher-paying opportunities in the future.

Exclusive Contract Terms: What Fighters Need to Know

One of the more intriguing aspects of the leaked contract is the stipulation that TKO guarantees fighters the opportunity to participate in four bouts in their first year. According to the contract, fighters are promised bouts every five months during the term of their agreement, providing frequent exposure in the ring. However, the long-term implications of this arrangement remain uncertain.

Perhaps the most notable clause involves pay-per-view events. TKO Boxing appears to have an established plan to keep the pay-per-view model alive, even as other promotions have moved away from it. Fighters participating in pay-per-view events will be entitled to a guaranteed purse and potentially a share of the net profits, providing an incentive for top performers to elevate the league’s prestige.

The Future of TKO Boxing: Will It Attract Top Talent?

While the TKO Boxing League may not immediately attract the likes of Canelo Alvarez or Gervonta Davis, the organization’s approach may still create new opportunities for the next generation of fighters. By focusing on younger boxers with the potential to rise through the ranks, TKO could carve out a niche for itself in the boxing world.

The concept of exclusive likeness rights for fighters is another key factor that will contribute to the league’s long-term success. This strategy mirrors the UFC’s success in promoting its fighters through various media channels, including video games and other entertainment products. TKO Boxing’s ability to invest in its fighters’ public profiles could significantly raise their earning potential as they grow in the sport.

An Intriguing Concept: Building From the Ground Up

Ultimately, the success of TKO Boxing will hinge on its ability to build and promote new talent. While it may not attract the highest-paid stars immediately, there is still a lot of potential in this new venture. For fighters on the rise, this could provide an avenue to gain valuable exposure and financial backing as they climb the ranks.

Despite the concerns over the pay structure, the model has potential. If it succeeds in creating compelling fighters and captivating storylines, TKO Boxing could be the disruptive force that the boxing world needs.

A Risk Worth Taking?

With Dana White and Turki Alalshikh at the helm, TKO Boxing has the potential to reshape the future of boxing. While the leaked salaries may not appeal to elite fighters, the structure offers substantial rewards for those willing to invest time and effort into building their careers. As the boxing community watches closely, only time will tell if this bold experiment pays off.