In what’s being called a historic and unprecedented move in the world of boxing, Turki Al-Sheikh, Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, has announced the cancellation of the pay-per-view (PPV) model for all “The Ring” and Riyadh Season events on DAZN.
Starting this November, DAZN subscribers will be able to watch major fights free of any additional charges.
A Game-Changing Announcement
The news was revealed via Turki Al-Sheikh’s official account on X, where he explained that the move is part of a broader vision to “bring boxing back to its fans” and “break financial barriers that kept the sport from reaching global audiences.”
Great meeting with my brother Shay, CEO of DAZN. We have big vision to grow boxing and decide: No More Pay-Per-View. Starting with our @ringmagazine show in November, all Riyadh Season & The Ring events will be free to DAZN subscribers. The PPV model has damaged boxing, and we… pic.twitter.com/txF1VMQaXA
— TURKI ALALSHIKH (@Turki_alalshikh) July 16, 2025
This change will include high-profile fights such as the highly anticipated rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Daniel Dubois on Saturday, July 19, and the blockbuster showdown between Canelo Álvarez and Terence Crawford.
From Pay-Per-View to Subscription: A Radical Shift
Traditionally, boxing—especially in the U.S.—has relied heavily on the PPV model, where fans often paid up to $90 to watch a single fight. With this new approach, a monthly DAZN subscription is enough to access all top-tier events, including the most popular global matchups.
The Shift Begins with The Ring 4 in November
The new policy will kick off with The Ring 4, set for November 22 in Riyadh, which will be available at no extra cost for all DAZN subscribers. The move aims to prioritize fans and expand viewership by removing financial barriers.
Still, DAZN confirmed that some already-scheduled PPV events—such as the Usyk vs. Dubois rematch (priced at £24.99), and the Whyte vs. Itauma bout on August 16 (£15.99)—will remain under the previous terms.
A Saudi Vision with Global Reach
Analysts see this as a strategic pivot. After hosting some of the biggest fights in recent years, Saudi Arabia now seeks to reshape the economic foundation of professional boxing.
What’s Next for Boxing?
While fans cheer the decision, major media outlets like ESPN and Showtime are watching closely.
Key questions emerge:
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Is this the end of the PPV era?
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Will other combat sports, like UFC, follow suit?
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What will the long-term impact be on fighter revenues and promoter models?
One thing is clear: Turki Al-Sheikh has opened the door to a major transformation in the boxing world… and the world is watching.
