Alalshikh has confirmed a blockbuster four-fight card for November, featuring world title bouts that promise high stakes and intense action. This card, promoted under Riyadh Season, includes the following matchups:
1. David Benavidez vs. Anthony Yarde (Super Middleweight)
• Details: This clash pits American knockout artist David Benavidez, a former two-time WBC super middleweight champion, against British contender Anthony Yarde, known for his power and resilience. Benavidez, with an undefeated record (29-0, 24 KOs), is a fan favorite for his relentless pressure and devastating punching power. Yarde (25-3, 24 KOs) has faced top-tier competition, including Sergey Kovalev and Artur Beterbiev, and brings explosive offense to the ring.
• Significance: This fight is a critical step for Benavidez, who is eyeing a future shot at Canelo Alvarez’s super middleweight titles. For Yarde, a win could catapult him back into title contention. Alalshikh’s matchmaking here ensures a high-octane clash, aligning with his push for “fighters who leave it all in the ring.”
• Source: Confirmed by Alalshikh via X posts from @HamedBoxing, @IntBoxingNews, and @ThrillBoxing.
2. Devin Haney vs. Brian Norman Jr. (Welterweight)
• Details: Former undisputed lightweight champion Devin Haney (31-1, 15 KOs) faces rising star Brian Norman Jr. (26-0, 20 KOs) for the WBO welterweight title. Haney, known for his slick boxing and defensive skills, is coming off a controversial loss to Ryan Garcia, while Norman Jr. has emerged as a power-punching threat in the welterweight division.
• Significance: This bout tests Haney’s ability to rebound against a younger, hungrier opponent. Alalshikh’s inclusion of this fight reflects his frustration with “runners” like Haney, who has been criticized for defensive performances. A toe-to-toe battle could redefine Haney’s reputation and solidify Norman Jr.’s status as a top contender.
• Source: Confirmed by Alalshikh via X posts from @HamedBoxing, @IntBoxingNews, and @ThrillBoxing.
3. Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez vs. Fernando Martinez (Junior Bantamweight)
• Details: Jesse Rodriguez (20-0, 13 KOs), the WBC and WBO junior bantamweight champion, takes on IBF and WBA titleholder Fernando Martinez (17-0, 9 KOs) in a unification bout. Rodriguez, a rising star, has dazzled with his speed and power, while Martinez’s durability and relentless style make this a potential fight-of-the-year candidate.
• Significance: This unification clash aligns with Alalshikh’s vision of creating undisputed champions and reducing boxing’s fragmented title system. A win for either fighter could establish them as the division’s dominant force.
• Source: Confirmed by Alalshikh via X posts from @HamedBoxing and @ThrillBoxing.
4. Abdullah Mason vs. Sam Noakes (Lightweight)
• Details: U.S. prospect Abdullah Mason (15-0, 13 KOs) faces British contender Sam Noakes (15-0, 14 KOs) for the vacant WBO lightweight world title. Both fighters are known for their knockout power and aggressive styles, promising a fan-friendly slugfest.
• Significance: This fight showcases Alalshikh’s commitment to promoting young talent, as both Mason and Noakes are rising stars with bright futures. The vacant title adds stakes to an already explosive matchup.