The announcement of Oleksandr Usyk’s promotional deal with Skills Challenge Entertainment (SCEE) in Saudi Arabia quickly led to social media speculation about the involvement of Daniel Kinahan. However, it is important to note that talks about the deal began after Usyk pulled out of negotiations with Tyson Fury for a clash at Wembley Stadium, so claims of collusion with the Saudis are untrue. Additionally, while insiders have confirmed Kinahan’s ongoing presence behind the scenes of boxing, there is no evidence to prove his involvement in Saudi boxing, at least not anymore.
Kinahan has had dealings with many promotional groups in recent years and has even bankrolled some major events in Britain during the pandemic. Many individuals within boxing have had dealings with him at some point, which is why those who presumed his involvement in boxing would end when he was sanctioned were mistaken. However, it is a fight even Kinahan cannot win, as he is reported to be in Dubai and unable to leave, with many expecting his arrest imminently. It is frustrating to see people flaunting the riches Kinahan’s money helped to build, but not everyone who helped is still keen to continue to do so. Those who had dealings with Kinahan in the past may soon regret them, as the net appears to be closing in on his associates.
There has been a failure from boxing authorities to create a suitable barrier for entry, leading to individuals like Kinahan being “let in the door”. While the gates are still open, boxing authorities are unable to keep track, but the real authorities have been watching. Nonetheless, many believe there is a lot of money laundering going on in boxing and that those corrupted by drug money may soon face the consequences of their actions. The police are unlikely to let them walk away.