DAZN and Saudi General Entertainment Authority (GEA) Announce End of PPV Model for Riyadh Season Boxing

Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority and DAZN have announced the end of the pay-per-view (PPV) model for all boxing events under the Riyadh Season and The Ring Magazine brands. This pivotal move, effective from 22nd November 2025, means that these prestigious bouts will no longer require additional PPV fees for access. Instead, they will be available to DAZN subscribers, opening the door to millions of viewers worldwide.

The GEA believes that the traditional PPV model has restricted boxing's growth and accessibility, stating that this change will make high-profile boxing events more accessible and engaging for a global audience. This decision aligns with Saudi Arabia’s ongoing investment in sports as part of its Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to increase the country’s international sports presence and diversify its economy.

By eliminating the financial burden of PPV fees, the GEA and DAZN aim to increase the sport's viewership, fan engagement and international reach. The shift away from PPV also reflects a broader change in the sports broadcasting landscape, where streaming platforms like DAZN are playing an increasingly prominent role in delivering live sports content to fans.

The change signals a potential new era for boxing, one where expensive paywalls no longer gate access to world-class events. By prioritising fan engagement and accessibility, this partnership sets a new standard in how major boxing events will be consumed in the future. For boxing fans, it promises a more inclusive experience, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the sport without financial barriers. This could be a game-changer not just for boxing but for other sports as well, as the world continues to move further into the digital age of content consumption.

The first significant event under this new model will be "The Ring IV," scheduled to take place on 22nd November 2025, at the ANB Arena in Riyadh. The fight card for the evening is expected to feature several world-class championship bouts, including a much-anticipated light heavyweight title fight between David Benavidez and Anthony Yarde.