SRJ declined to comment publicly beyond the statement in the news release announcing the deal. Saudi officials did not respond to a request for comment from The Associated Press about their plans for the mixed marital arts venture. However, it follows the playbook of the other purchases and the hosting of sporting events ranging from boxing matches to Formula One — making Saudi Arabia known on the world stage.
Critics refer to the move as “sportswashing” — using the competition to draw attention away from criticism about the kingdom’s conduct. Under Prince Mohammed, women can now drive and there has been a liberalization socially in this ultraconservative nation that’s home to the holiest sites in Islam. However, online criticism of the government can draw prison terms — and even death sentences.Law professor Stephen F.
Georgetown University-Qatar visiting associate professor Danyel Reiche, an expert on sports and politics in the Middle East, said countries that try to use sports to improve their global standing can make up only so much ground. In Saudi Arabia’s case, its extensive spending is more about attracting major events to that country. The 2034 Asian Games already are scheduled to take place there.
“PFL and SRJ share the same vision for mixed martial arts — the biggest star fighters, mega global events, and global expansion to bring the sport to all regions — so we are thrilled and honored to have SRJ as our investment partner,” PFL CEO Peter Murray said in a statement. “PFL has become the clear No. 2 MMA company in just five years, and with SRJ’s backing, the best of PFL is still to come.”“It’s possible there might be no limits for a country like Saudi Arabia,” Reiche said.