The Impact of the WBC Riyadh Season Boxing Grand Prix

The third stage of the WBC Boxing Grand Prix is about to begin. A total of 128 fighters across four divisions started with the dream of winning the José Sulaimán Trophy.

Now, only 32 have made it to the quarterfinals of this historic first-ever world boxing championship. Each still dreams of reaching their division’s final and taking home the inaugural title.

The prize for winning isn’t just the José Sulaimán Trophy—created in honor of the lifelong dream of Don José Sulaimán, the late WBC president for life. All four winners will also receive a cash prize and a shot at the silver title in their division.

The winners’ purses exceed $200,000.

Beyond the money, this is a true life-changing opportunity. For many of these fighters, it’s not just about the cash—it’s about the boost that can define their careers. With this support, they can invest in better training, equipment, preparation, and building a solid future in boxing. It’s a reward for the effort, sacrifice, and dreams they’ve carried since their first day in the gym.

The global exposure these fighters gain through this tournament is extraordinary. One of the main purposes of the Grand Prix is to showcase emerging boxing talent to the world.

Thanks to this visibility, the eyes of promoters, sponsors, and industry experts are on them—opening doors to new opportunities, contracts, professional backing, and a platform to achieve their dreams.

This tournament doesn’t just provide a stage—it provides hope.

Perhaps the biggest potential career-changer is the chance to fight for the WBC silver title in their division. This isn’t just another fight—it’s a direct doorway to the world’s elite.

Currently, the silver champions in the Grand Prix divisions are:

• Featherweight: Nathaniel Collins
• Super Lightweight: Dalton Smith
• Middleweight: Bital Jkitou
• Heavyweight: Lawrence Okolie

A shot at a WBC silver belt means being just a few steps away from a world title fight. It’s entry into the radar of big names, main events, and the sport’s biggest stages. It’s the opportunity to stop being a prospect and become a proven contender.

For many of these fighters, this could be the start of a new story—one where their names are written alongside boxing’s legends.