Jake Paul makes bold allegation against Turki Alalshikh over Canelo Alvarez fight block

Jake Paul’s evolution from internet sensation to headline-grabbing boxer has been anything but conventional. With each bout, the American continues to make headlines—and as he prepares for his upcoming clash against Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., he’s making even more noise outside the ring.

True to his provocative style, Paul has never hesitated to call out high-profile opponents, or even figures operating behind the scenes. One of his long-standing goals has been a showdown with Canelo Alvarez, Mexico’s biggest boxing superstar. That fight, however, has never materialized. And now, Paul claims he knows exactly why.

Speaking during an interview on The MMA Hour, Paul made a bold accusation, pointing directly at influential Saudi advisor and promoter Turki Alalshikh. “They told him that if he fought me, they would cancel his contract. I understand, he had to protect the future of his family. When you invest billions in boxing and you’re not the one organizing the biggest events, but there’s a guy doing it without putting in a dollar, you’ll do whatever it takes to stop him,” Paul said.

Jake Paul says $300 million deal stood in the way

According to Paul, the reason Canelo stayed away from the fight was tied to a staggering financial agreement. He claims Alalshikh leveraged a $300 million contract to deter the Mexican superstar from accepting the challenge.

Jake Paul claims he couldn’t fight Canelo Alvarez because of a threat to the Mexican champion. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

Paul acknowledged the decision, noting that Canelo was simply looking out for his family’s well-being. But he didn’t hold back from voicing what he believes would have happened had the fight gone forward. “I would have beaten him for sure, he’s finished,” Paul added confidently.

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Who is Turki Alalshikh?

Turki Alalshikh has quickly become one of boxing’s most influential power brokers. A senior Saudi official and major sports investor, Alalshikh has helped shift the epicenter of boxing to the Middle East by funding and promoting major international bouts. Though he prefers to operate behind the scenes, his impact is undeniable—and, in this case, increasingly controversial.