Sure, Sulaiman Abbar knows how to take a punch. But, more importantly, he knows how to build something that lasts—inside and outside the ring.
As Saudi Arabia’s number one ranked professional boxer, Abbar is a quickly establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with, quickly earning four knockouts in just as many fights. But beyond the ropes, he’s also an active member of Jeddah’s Chamber of Commerce and a businessman invested in local industry and self-sufficiency through Ghazi Abdullah Abbar Co. Ltd.
As a member of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and an active participant in the Food and Pharmaceutical Industries Committee, he’s helping bridge the gap between private enterprise and government initiatives. Yet, despite this despite this increasingly impressive business acumen, Abbar’s greatest passion remains boxing—not just as a fighter, but as a builder of opportunity.
He knows that the next generation of Saudi boxers deserves better access to training, coaching, and facilities than he had. That’s why he’s investing in the infrastructure of boxing in Jeddah; for himself and the next generation of boxers in his home country.
With recent major fights taking place as part of “Grassroots Boxing” events in Dubai, Abbar’s preparation is more focused than ever. Training is no longer just about raw intensity—it’s about precision. Every session has a purpose. Every move is intentional.
“Time management is key,” he explains. “Balancing my fighting career and business ventures requires discipline, but it’s the same principle—focus on what matters and execute with intent.”
Abbar’s mindset is focused on a winning result, but the process of continuous evolution is as valuable to him. He studies past fights, analyzes his weaknesses, and refines his technique with a level of detail that separates good fighters from great ones. Where he doesn’t win, he learns.
“People assume boxing is just about power, but it’s really about control,” he says. “It’s controlling your movement, controlling your emotions, controlling the rhythm of the fight. The best boxers in the world are the ones who can impose their will while staying completely composed.”
For Abbar, this discipline encompasses all aspects of life. Whether he’s in the boardroom, training at the gym, or discussing business strategies, the principles remain the same: be strategic, focused, and prepared.
Saudi Arabia is rapidly emerging as a sports powerhouse, investing heavily in elite competitions, global partnerships, and athlete development. While the massive boxing events of Riyadh Season and international sporting tournaments bring global attention to The Kingdom, Abbar also identifies the importance of grassroots development to reinforce this momentum.
“Talent doesn’t develop in isolation,” reflects. “It needs access, mentorship, and opportunity. Ability without opportunity is nothing.”
Saudi boxing is still in its infancy compared to powerhouse nations like the U.S. or the U.K. While fighters have talent, many have lacked the proper training infrastructure or exposure to top-level competition.
That’s where Abbar wants to make a difference. He envisions a Saudi boxing ecosystem—one complete with certified trainers, youth academies, and a clear path for amateurs to turn professional without needing to train abroad.
Despite being Saudi Arabia’s top-ranked boxer, Abbar has never fought on home soil.
“I’ve fought abroad. I’ve represented Saudi everywhere I go. But there’s nothing quite like fighting at home—that’s something every fighter dreams of,” Abbar says. “It would be an honor to fight in my own country.”
The demand for local boxing events is growing, and Abbar hopes that by investing in the sport’s infrastructure, Saudi Arabia will soon host major professional fights with more homegrown talent to showcase to the rest world.
Instead of waiting for change, Abbar is taking action. His soon-to-open gym, SGA Club, is a statement of intent.
“No one should have to leave their home to chase their dreams,” he states. “I had the privilege of training in elite facilities, sparring with top-level fighters abroad. Now, I want to bring that experience home.”
SGA Club is a training ground for serious fighters—a place where young boxers can access top-tier coaching, modern equipment, and a structured program to help them develop into professional athletes.
The gym will feature State-of-the-art training equipment, professional coaching staff, A dedicated sparring area for fighters and Youth and amateur programs.
The grand opening date is yet to be announced, but the vision is clear. Abbar wants SGA Club to become the heart of Saudi boxing—a place where young talent isn’t merely developed, but nurtured strategically into the international elite.
“I want to create a space where champions are made,” he intones. “I want to create a training ground where fighters sharpen their craft and potential turns into something real.”
Outside of boxing, Abbar is playing an active role in Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation. As a member of the Food and Pharmaceutical Industries Committee, he helps connect private businesses with government initiatives aimed at boosting local manufacturing and reducing dependence on imports.
His efforts have been recognized by The Kingdom, by placing him Jeddah’s Chamber of Commerce to further these efforts.
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 places a major emphasis on economic diversification, and one of the key areas of growth is self-sufficiency in manufacturing. The government is offering incentives for businesses to produce locally, reducing reliance on foreign supply chains and boosting domestic production.
Abbar sees this as a pivotal moment.
“A strong nation thrives on self-sufficiency,” he says. “In business, just like in boxing, having a solid foundation is key. We have the resources and capability to produce world-class goods right here—not just for ourselves, but for export.”
With Saudi Arabia positioning itself as a business hub, Abbar believes entrepreneurs have a unique opportunity to lead this transformation—whether in manufacturing, trade, or sports.
“The shift is happening,” he emphasizes. “And the smart play is to be on the frontlines of that transformation.”
Abbar’s approach to fashion mirrors his approach to life; authentic, unforced, and confident.
“I think I have my own style,” he says. “I love creative pieces, but I also appreciate simplicity. Fashion is about how you feel in the moment—it’s what you want to say without speaking.”
For him, there are no rules; just the freedom to be genuine.
Sulaiman Abbar isn’t just building a career for himself—he’s building a future for his country.
Every punch thrown, every move made, every step taken is all part of something bigger.
“At the end of the day, it’s not about titles or money,” Abbar says. “It’s about what you build and what you leave behind.” This is how you build a legacy.