Turki Al-Sheikh, adviser to the Saudi Royal Court and close aide to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has emerged as one of the most influential figures in global boxing.
After graduating from university, Al-Sheikh joined the state security department before moving to Bin Salman’s office. In 2017, he was appointed chairman of the General Sports Authority and a year later, chairman of the General Entertainment Authority.
Under his leadership, Saudi Arabia has sought to become a regional entertainment hub. He is credited with spearheading Riyadh Season and efforts to “fix broken boxing.”
Matchroom’s Eddie Hearn described him as a “true boxing fan,” while promoter Frank Warren defended Saudi’s growing role in hosting major fights. Critics, however, say the kingdom’s investment in boxing is aimed at deflecting attention from its human rights record.
In 2024, Al-Sheikh acquired The Ring magazine from former world champion Oscar De La Hoya.