A returning guest on the podcast, Ziyad “Zizo” Almaayouf is Saudi Arabia’s first professional boxer undefeated, unapologetically proud, and a GQ Middle East cover star representing a bold new generation.

Born in New York City on July 2, 2000, Zizo took up boxing at age 11 and overcame early challenges due to limited training resources. At 19, he moved to Los Angeles to train under legendary coach Buddy McGirt, fully committing to his craft and his country. 

On August 20, 2022, Zizo made history with a first-round knockout in his professional debut becoming the first Saudi to win a pro boxing match. Now 8–0, he’s more than a rising star; he’s a symbol of Saudi excellence, blending world-class athleticism with the ambition of Vision 2030.

Guided by elite mentorship and backed by the Kingdom’s leadership and growing investment in sports, Zizo steps into the ring not just to win, but to inspire. He represents the next generation of Saudi athletes: disciplined, global, and driven to lead. Outside the ring, Zizo continues to shape Saudi Arabia’s evolving sports and entertainment landscape, paving the way for future champions across the region.

0:00 Intro

3:12 Vision 2030’s role in boxing

6:14 Facing top-ranked opponents

7:51 Mindset: focus on next win

10:04 Impact on global boxing

12:31 Reviving boxing’s golden era

15:00 Saudi intervention in sport

18:13 Why I chose boxing

26:23 Saudi hospitality

32:35 Power of positive self-talk

37:54 Reframing negative thoughts

44:16 What true patience means

59:08 Lessons from my father

1:02:04 Viewing pressure as privilege

1:05:31 Defining success and legacy