The Saudi Arabian General Entertainment Authority, led by Turki Alalshikh, is significantly enhancing its footprint in combat sports through strategic media acquisitions and partnerships. Following the acquisition of The Ring magazine last November, Alalshikh has bolstered its digital presence with key hires and collaborations. Recently, a significant partnership was formed with digital boxing creator Wade Plemons, bringing his popular podcast to The Ring's platforms. This move amplifies The Ring’s reach while integrating live-streamed watchalongs and behind-the-scenes content.

Additionally, Alalshikh's initiatives extend beyond media, impacting the broader landscape of combat sports globally. With signings of top fighters and hosting major events both inside and outside Saudi Arabia, the country's influence in this domain continues to grow.

Revitalizing The Ring Magazine

Turki Alalshikh's acquisition of The Ring magazine marks a pivotal moment in combat sports journalism. Transforming from an exclusively digital format, The Ring now publishes print editions alongside expanding its online offerings. Key hires like Mike Coppinger and Elizabeth Baugh have enriched the editorial team, elevating the publication's credibility and scope.

Since acquiring The Ring, Alalshikh has not only restored its traditional print format but also modernized its approach to media. By re-introducing the print version after a decade-long hiatus, he aligns with enthusiasts who prefer tangible reading materials. Simultaneously, the integration of digital strategies ensures that The Ring remains relevant in today's fast-paced information age. These enhancements position The Ring as a comprehensive resource for combat sports fans worldwide, bridging the gap between traditional and contemporary media consumption preferences.

Growing Digital Presence Through Partnerships

Collaborations with influential figures such as Wade Plemons signify The Ring's commitment to strengthening its digital footprint. By incorporating Plemons' podcast into their network, The Ring gains access to a vast audience already engaged with combat sports content across multiple platforms.

Plemons' extensive following on YouTube, exceeding 390,000 subscribers, coupled with active participation on other social media channels, brings substantial traffic to The Ring's properties. His podcast averages over two million views monthly, showcasing his ability to captivate audiences with insightful commentary and engaging discussions. Under the new agreement, Plemons will continue broadcasting at least three times weekly on YouTube while leveraging additional distribution channels provided by The Ring and The Volume’s networks. Furthermore, the collaboration introduces live-streamed watchalongs and exclusive backstage access to prominent boxers, enriching fan experiences around major fight nights. This strategic alliance exemplifies how The Ring leverages partnerships to enhance its multimedia presence, ensuring it stays at the forefront of combat sports coverage.