The move of Cristiano Ronaldo to Saudi Arabia continues to send shockwaves throughout the sports industry. His switch from Manchester United to Al-Nassr shocked the world last summer and opened the floodgates for a mass exodus. The likes of Karim Benzema followed suit this year, and now the effects might be seen in the MMA world. However, there is a fresh wave of change that might spoil the game for Dana White.

The Asian country has emerged as a hotspot for sporting events in recent years as it continues to flex its soft power through sports. The visuals of high-voltage boxing fights, the acquisition of Newcastle United, a Formula One race, and a deal to host the LIV Golf tournament have put Saudi Arabia at the forefront of the sports world. And now it appears MMA is next.

Should Dana White be worried?

“Karim left already, and I am 1000% sure that many more players will,” Ronaldo declared at an event in Madrid when discussing the future of the Saudi Pro League. He didn’t know his comments would become more relevant in a couple of weeks in the MMA world. Notably, recent reports suggest SRJ Sports Investments is ready to make inroads in the MMA world with its latest purchase.

The Saudi Arabian company has acquired a minority stake in PFL, a rival MMA promotion of the UFC. Further, the deal amount touched a whopping $100 million. It also includes a clause for hosting PFL PPV Super Fights in the country.

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The development raises a red alarm for the UFC lynchpin, as it might cause another exodus. But this time in the UFC. Dana White has genuine reasons to be concerned, as he has already lost Francis Ngannou to the rival promotion. Meanwhile, ‘The Predator’ might rejoice at the news as he continues to train for his next fight.

Francis Ngannou to lock horn with Tyson Fury in the sandy storms of Saudi

The Cameroonian-French fighter and Tyson Fury will square off in a professional boxing match on October 28th in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The former UFC champion will make his boxing debut and finally live his dream of throwing punches in a square circle.

While Ngannou would be breaking a sweat in the gym, he would be delighted, as it appears his move to PFL would reap more benefits than previously expected. After fighting the English WBC champion, he will make his debut in the PFL next year, and if these reports hold water, it will take place in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia means baffling money, and who would not like a heap of cash?

What do you think of this latest update? Do you believe the sporting focus is shifting to Saudi Arabia? Let us know in the comments below.

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