Is Turki Alal Shikh Using Takashi Nishiyama to Make a Boxing Game? Would It Be a Conflict of Interest If He Is Partnered With SCI?

Introduction

The gaming and combat sports communities have been buzzing with speculation about whether Turki Alal Shikh, the influential Saudi Arabian sports and gaming investor, is backing a boxing video game separate from Undisputed. Adding fuel to the discussion is the rumored involvement of Takashi Nishiyama, the legendary game developer known for his work on Street Fighter and Fatal Fury. If true, this raises a significant question—would Turki Alal Shikh’s alleged investment in a separate boxing game pose a conflict of interest if he is also tied to Steel City Interactive (SCI), the developers of Undisputed?

Turki Alal Shikh’s Gaming Investments

Turki Alal Shikh is widely recognized for his deep involvement in combat sports and gaming. His backing of The Arena Esports and various fighting game tournaments has positioned him as a key player in interactive entertainment. His influence extends beyond esports, with Saudi Arabia actively investing in the video game industry through the Public Investment Fund (PIF). Given his track record, it wouldn’t be far-fetched to assume he might want to back a boxing game project—especially if Undisputed is struggling to meet expectations.

Takashi Nishiyama’s Role in a Potential Boxing Game

Takashi Nishiyama is a pioneer in the fighting game genre. His expertise in designing combat-based mechanics could be instrumental in creating a new boxing game that challenges the current direction of Undisputed. If he is indeed working on a new boxing title, it could indicate a shift towards a different approach—perhaps one that blends arcade-style accessibility with realistic elements.

However, boxing fans who have long clamored for a true-to-life simulation may wonder: Is this new game intended to be a competitor to Undisputed, or will it take a different, more stylized approach akin to Fight Night Champion?

The Conflict of Interest Question

If Turki Alal Shikh is still financially or strategically partnered with SCI while also funding a rival boxing game, this would present an apparent conflict of interest. Some questions that arise include:

• Does SCI still have financial backing or partnership agreements with Turki Alal Shikh?
• If Turki is funding a competing boxing game, does it mean he has lost confidence in Undisputed?
• Could this new project pressure SCI to accelerate development or change direction?

If Turki Alal Shikh is supporting another boxing title while remaining tied to SCI in any capacity, it could be seen as a strategic hedge—ensuring that he has a stake in whichever game ultimately succeeds.

What This Means for the Future of Boxing Games

The boxing video game market has been underserved for over a decade, with Undisputed carrying the burden of being the first major simulation boxing game in years. If a new boxing title emerges—particularly one led by a respected name like Nishiyama—it could intensify competition and drive innovation.

If Turki Alal Shikh is funding another game, it could mean:

1. SCI may no longer have his full backing, signaling potential financial instability.
2. A new boxing game could challenge Undisputed directly, especially if it provides features or mechanics that fans feel Undisputed lacks.
3. The landscape of boxing games could change drastically, with multiple companies vying for dominance.

Conclusion

At this point, the involvement of Turki Alal Shikh in a new boxing game remains speculative, but if true, it would be a significant development. His connection to SCI and Undisputed would make such a move highly controversial, particularly if it signals waning confidence in the game's future. Meanwhile, Takashi Nishiyama’s potential involvement suggests that another major boxing title could be on the horizon.

For boxing game fans, competition is ultimately a good thing—so long as at least one title delivers the deep, realistic experience they’ve been waiting for. The question now is: Will it be Undisputed, or will another game rise to take its place?