That dude is the King, and he has gained all of his power from the chaal trade, which basically makes him a criminal kingpin. No wonder the Tonton are such nasty dudes.

We see chaal get connected to cage fighting quite often throughout the novel, with the drug taking credit for the crowd's bloodthirsty response to such brutal combat. Are the games an outlet for these violent tendencies, or are they part of the cause?

If you recall, heartstones are said to get warm when the wearer gets closer to the object of their desire. And Saba is getting close to Jack at this very moment. Coincidence? No way. Saba doesn't realize it yet, but she's just landed herself somewhere far more frightening than a fighting cage: in love.