Frank Warren has launched a scathing attack on fellow promoter Ben Shalom, labelling him as ‘disrespectful’ and ‘pathetic’ in a heated outburst during the recent Saudi fight week. Warren, Shalom, and Eddie Hearn were the main promoters in Riyadh for the Artur Beterbiev vs Dmitry Bivol event, with Shalom being a newer addition to the boxing scene. Warren leads Queensberry, while Hearn heads Matchroom, and Shalom is in charge of Boxxer.
The three promotions each have their own broadcast partners – TNT Sports, DAZN, and Sky Sports respectively, all of whom have broadcasted major events in Saudi Arabia over the past year. However, tensions arose during fight week when footage surfaced showing Warren and Shalom engaging in a heated exchange during a fighter face-off. Warren has since accused Shalom of being overly concerned about trivial matters such as seating arrangements and photo opportunities.
In an interview with Box Nation, Warren expressed his frustration, stating, “All you got from him all week was, ‘Where am I sitting? Am I on the camera side of the TV?’ Sending contracts through… it’s just pathetic.” He further criticised Shalom’s behaviour, calling it disrespectful to everyone involved in the event. Warren indicated that he had to intervene to address Shalom’s actions and asserted that the focus should be on the boxers, not personal appearances.
Referring to the outcomes of the fights, Warren alluded to the defeats suffered by Shalom’s fighters, Frazer Clarke’s first-round knockout by Fabio Wardley, and Ben Whittaker’s draw with Liam Cameron following an injury. Warren insinuated that Shalom’s behaviour during the event may have contributed to the negative outcomes for his fighters.
When confronted with Shalom’s accusations of facing obstacles from Hearn and Warren, the Queensberry boss dismissed the claims, urging Shalom to ‘grow up’ and ‘act [his] age’. The escalating tensions between the promoters highlight the competitive nature of the boxing industry and the challenges faced in coordinating high-profile events.
As the aftermath of the Saudi fight week continues to unfold, the exchange between Warren and Shalom serves as a reminder of the complexities and rivalries within the world of boxing promotion. The fallout from these confrontations may have lasting implications for future collaborations and partnerships in the sport.