By Norm Frauenheim

Speculation continues to circulate that the long-awaited Tyson Fury-Anthony Joshua fight, projected for November, will land in the United States instead of the UK.

It gained further traction this week with a report in The Athletic that Las Vegas is a leading possibility.

Reaction: Fury-Joshua belongs in Vegas or any other U.S. city about as much as London Bridge belongs in Lake Havasu City in western Arizona.

It’s a lousy fit, an insult to history and a betrayal of UK fans, who have been waiting on the Fury-Joshua heavyweight showdown for years.

Don’t deny them.

It’s hard to know what to believe about the speculation, especially amid the confusing exchange of taunts and insults that cover boxing’s promotional edifice like obscene graffiti.

Eddie Hearn and Dana White don’t like each other. We get it. They accuse each other of lying and a whole lot of other things that keep lawyers in expensive suits and fans exasperated.

“There are more court cases than I’ve ever seen,’’ Hearn said last week in Glendale, Ariz., before Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez delivered something worth watching in stopping Antonio Vargas at Desert Diamond Arena.

Bam, thanks for a genuine statement amid all the garbage.

What’s missing in all the trolling and legalese are fans. With the advent of Zuffa and it’s ongoing attempt to monopolize the sport, fans are a forgotten factor. Did they get mentioned in the recent US Senate hearings for the Muhammad Ali Boxing Revival Act? Didn’t think so.

But the fear is that UK fans, the biggest and most fiercely loyal demographic anywhere, are about to get screwed. In 1968, the old London Bridge was moved, brick-by-brick, to Arizona and rebuilt over a shallow, muddy piece of water in bleached bone-dry desert.

If they can take away the London Bridge, they can take away Fury-Joshua.

For now, at least, there’s a clause in Joshua’s contract that says the projected fight must happen in the UK, according to Hearn, his promoter. However, there is no similar clause in Fury’s contract, Hearn told Boxing Scene last week.

Meanwhile, Fury showed up at the White House for Dana White’s UFC event Sunday. Fury had come back – he’s always coming back  — to the US for the first time in at least five years, reportedly because of his ties to alleged Irish gangster Daniel Kinahan.

Fury, whose promoter-of-record is Frank Warren, talked about plans, some of them presumably about joining Zuffa and White. But it was short on details. More tease than news. Yet, the fact he was in the US – at the White House, no less — suggests he’s open to fighting Joshua in Vegas or any other US city.

Meanwhile, it’s not clear what Joshua thinks. Hearn said his contract can be re-negotiated, including the clause mandating the fight happens in the UK. Saudi Prince and promoter Turki Alalshikh has enough money to change a lot of minds.

“Turki Alalshikh pays the bills,’’ Hearn said.

But UK fans are about to pay the price.

Here’s a better idea:

It’s time for Joshua to step up and speak for UK fans. Time to insist that the fight happens in the UK and only the UK, whose fans have followed him, stuck with him after losses to Andy Ruiz and are fundamental to his wealth and celebrity.

Hearn told The Boxing Hour and The Good Fight last week that he didn’t think it was in Joshua’s personality to take a public stand.

“I don’t think that would be his way,’’ Hearn said. “It’s not in his nature.’’

But it might be time for nature to change. He owes it to the fans who made him.

Elijah Garcia back

Elijah Garcia (17-2, 13 KOs), a prominent prospect a couple of years ago, hopes to get his career back on track at Celebrity Theater in Phoenix Saturday night.

Garcia, now a super-middleweigt from Phoenix, faces Ryan Adams (12-11-1) of Saint Louis.

Garcia is coming off a loss by a debatable majority decision to Kevin Newman in March at Las Vegas’ MGM Grand.

The card features Kingsley Ibeh (16-3-1, 14 KOs) against Dante Stone (21-2, 13 KOs) for an Arizona heavyweight title..

First Bell is scheduled for 6 p.m. (PT).

Former heavyweight champion Tyson Fury returned from his sixth “retirement” with a 12-roumd unanimous decision over Aslanbek Makhmudov in front of over 50,000 at Tottenham-Hotspur Stadium in London.

Fury, 267.9 lbs of London won by scores of 120-108 twice and 119-109 and is now 35-2-1. Makhmudov, 264.9 lbs of Montreal is 21-3.

After the fight Fury and Turki Al-Sheika called Anthony Joshua into the ring but Joshua declined.

Benn Decisions Prograis

Conor Benn won a 10-round unanimous decision over former two-time world champion Regis Prograis in a welterweight fight.

In round five, Benn was cut over his left eye.

In round six, Benn was cut over his right eye from an accidental headbutt.

Benn, 149.6 lbs of Ilford, ENG won by scores of 98-92 on all cards and is now 25-1. Prograis, 148.6 lbs of Houston is 30-4.

Riakporhe Stops Tshikeva in 5

Richard Riakporhe stopped Jeamie Tshkeva (TKE) in round five of their 10-round British Heavyweight title fight

In round two, Tshikeva was bleeding from his nose. In round five, Riakporhe landed a big right hand that put Shikeva down. Later in round five, Riakporhe landed a huge flurry that featured six wicked rights and two left hooks and the fight was stopped at 2:12.

Riakporhe, 234.12 lbs of Walworth, ENG is 20-1 with 16 knockouts. Tshikeva, 262.7 lbs of Tottenham, ENG is 9-3.

Huni Decisions Clarke By Majority Decision

Justis Huni won a 10-round majority decision over Frazer Clarke in a heavyweight bout.

Huni, 246.14 lbs of Brisbane, AUS won by scores of 96-94 twice and 95-95 and is now 13-1. Clarke, 259.12 lbs of Burton-On-Treat, UK is 9-3.

Breyon Gorham stopped Eduardo Costa in round five of their eight-round junior welterweight bout.

In round one, Gorham dropped Costa with a chopping right to the head.

In round five, Gorham hurt Costa with a right to the jaw and followed up with an uppercut that set off five lefts to the chin and the fight was stopped at 1:51.

Gorham, 141.14 lbs of Houston is 22-0 with 17 knockouts. Costa, 140.13 lbs of Sao Paulo, BRA is 12-6.

Mikey Tallon stopped Leandro Blanc in the opening round of their eight-round super flyweight bout.

Tallon landed a perfect left to the body that put Blanc down and the fight was over at 2:53.

Tallon, 113.12 lbs of Liverpool, UK is 14-0 with three knockouts. Blanc, 113.7 lbs of Concordia, ARG us 8-5.

Pawel August won a six-round decision over Simon Zachunhuber in a super middleweight bout of undefeated fighters.

August, 170.7 lbs of Thunton, UK won by a 58-56 score and is 18-0. Zachunhuber, 169.6 lbs of Erding, GER is 28-1.

Felix Cash stopped Liam O’Hare in round two of a 10-round middleweight fight.

In round one, Cash dropped O’Hare with a counter right. Seconds later, a flurry that was finished off by a right put O’Hare down again. Early in round two, Cash landed a big right that put O’Hare made O’Hare crouch his legs and the fight was stopped at 22 seconds

Cash, 162.15 lbs is 17-1 with 11 knockouts. O’Hare, 162.2 lbs is 13-3.

Sultan Almohammed stopped Hector Lozano in round three of a four-round junior lightweight bout.

Almohammed landed an uppercut that was followed by a jab and four right hands that sandwiched around a left and the fight was stopped at 2:46.

Almohammed, 130.15 lbs of Riyadh, SA is 3-0 with two knockouts. Lozano, 131.2 lbs of El Fuerte, MEX is 3-8-2

Eliot Whale stopped Tom Hill in round four of their six-round welterweight bout.

Whale broke down Hill and the fight was stopped at 2:39.

Whale, 149.3 lbs of Sidcub, UK is 14-0 with nine knockouts. Hill, 147.4 lbs of Red Car, ENG is 12-5.

LONDON, UK –  April 10, 2026  –? Today, heavyweight World Champion Tyson Fury (34-2-1, 24 KOs) and fearsome knockout artist Arsalanbek Makhmudov (21-2, 19 KOs) stepped on the scales ahead of their highly anticipated showdown.

Fighters on the main and preliminary cards participated in the weigh-in, including British welterweight Conor “The Destroyer” Benn (24-1, 14 KOs) who will face Regis “Rougarou” Prograis (30-3, 24 KOs). Additional fighters in attendance included Jeamie Tshikeva (9-2, 5 KOs), Richard “The Midnight Train” Riakporhe (19-1, 15 KOs), Frazer Clarke (9-2-1, 7 KOs), Justis Huni (12-1, 7 KOs), Pawel August (17-0, 7 KOs), Simon Zachenhuber (28-0, 17 KOs), Breyon “Grind Time” Gorham (21-0, 16 KOs), Eduardo Costa (12-5, 5 KOs), Mikie “The Omen” Tallon (12-0, 2 KOs), Leonardo Blanc (8-4, 3 KOs), Felix Cash (16-1, 10 KOs), Liam O’Hare (13-2, 4 KOs), Hector Lozano (3-7-1, 3 KOs), Sultan Almohammed (2-0, 1 KO), Elliot Whale (13-0, 8 KOs, and Tom Hill (12-4, 3 KOs).

For additional details on the final weights, please refer to the below bout sheet.

MAIN CARD 7:00PM BST

Heavyweight Bout 

Tyson Fury vs. Arslanbek Makhmudov 

34-2-1 (24 KOs)  | 21-2 (19 KOs)

267.9lbs | 264.9lbs

Super Welterweight Bout

Conor Benn vs. Regis Prograis

24-1 (14 KOs) | 30-3 (24 KOs)

149.5lbs | 148.1lbs

British Heavyweight Title Bout

Jeamie Tshikeva vs. Richard “The Midnight Train” Riakporhe

9-2 (5 KOs) | 19-1 (15 KOs) 

262.7lbs | 234.12lbs 

Heavyweight Bout

Frazer Clarke vs. Justis Huni 

9-2-1 (7 KOs) | 12-1 (7 KOs) 

259.12lbs | 246.14lbs

PRELIMS 3:30PM BST

Light-Heavyweight Bout

Pawel August vs. Simon Zachenhuber

17-0 (7 KOs) | 28-0 (17 KOs)

170.7lbs | 169.6lbs

Welterweight Bout

Breyon “Grind Time” Gorham vs. Eduardo Costa

21-0 (16 KOs) | 12-5 (5 KOs)

141.14lbs | 140.13lbs

Super Flyweight Bout

Mikie “The Omen” Tallon vs. Leonardo Blanc

12-0 (2 KOs) | 8-4 (3 KOs)

113.12lbs | 113.7lbs

Super Middleweight Bout

Felix Cash vs. Liam O’Hare

16-1 (10 KOs) | 13-2 (4 KOs)

162.15lbs | 162.2lbs

Lightweight Bout

Hector Lozano vs. Sultan Almohammed

3-7-1(3 KOs) | 2-0 (1 KO)

131.2lbs | 130.15lbs 

Super Welterweight Bout

Elliot Whale vs.Tom Hill

13-0 (8 KOs) | 12-4 (3 KOs)

149.3lbs | 148.4lbs 

The Ring and Netflix’s Tyson Fury vs. Arslanbek Makhmudov will stream live globally on Netflix on Saturday 11 April at 7pm BST / 2pm ET / 11am PT from Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, UK. The preliminary card will begin at 3:30pm BST.

About Ring Magazine: 

Since its acquisition by His Excellency Turki Alalshikh in November 2024, The Ring has entered a new era, reinforcing its status as boxing’s most legendary and authoritative voice. The magazine has showcased many of the sport’s biggest fights and most iconic

moments, most recently Shakur Stevenson vs Teofimo Lopez at a sold out Madison Square Garden, British boxing’s most talked about match-up between Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn, as well as the legacy-defining showdown between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford in Las Vegas, often described as “the fight of the century.” The Ring delivers world-class global coverage with unrivaled access to boxing’s top stars. Building on its rich heritage, the magazine continues to document the sport at the highest level whilst shaping the present and preserving the legacy of boxing. 

About Netflix: 

Netflix is one of the world’s leading entertainment services offering TV series, films, games and live programming across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members can play, pause and resume watching as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, and can change their plans at any time. 

LONDON, UK –  April 9, 2026  –?Today, international heavyweight World Champion Tyson Fury (34-2-1, 24 KOs) and knockout artist Arslanbek Makhmudov (21-2, 19 KOs) came toe to toe at the final press conference in advance of their highly anticipated showdown streaming live on Netflix on Saturday, April 11.

Fighters across the main and preliminary cards participated in the press conference, including British welterweight Conor “The Destroyer” Benn (24-1, 14 KOs) who will take on Regis “Rougarou” Prograis (30-3, 24 KOs) in the co-main event. Additional fighters in attendance included Jeamie Tshikeva (9-2, 5 KOs), Richard “The Midnight Train” Riakporhe (19-1, 15 KOs), Frazer Clarke (9-2, 7 KOs), Justis Huni (12-1, 7KOs), Pawel August (17-0, 7 KOs), Simon Zachenhuber (28-0, 17 KOs), Breyon “Grind Time” Gorham (20-0, 16 KOs), Eduardo Costa (12-5, 5 KOs), Mikie “The Omen” Tallon (11-0, 2 KOs), Leonardo Blanc (0-1, 0 KOs), Felix Cash (16-0, 10 KOs, Liam O’Hare (13-2, 4 KOs), Hector Lozano (3-7-1), Sultan Almohammed (2-0, 1 KO), Elliot Whale (13-0, 8 KOs, and Tom Hill (12-3, 3 KOs). 

The event was punctuated by a series of candid, emotionally charged exchanges, from Conor Benn openly reflecting on his maturity, faith and violent welterweight intentions against former two?time world champion Regis Prograis, to Tyson Fury vowing a destructive return after 16 months out of the ring against fearsome knockout artist Arslanbek Makhmudov, while heavyweight contenders Frazer Clarke, Justis Huni, Jeamie Tshikeva and Richard Riakporhe all promised to steal the show on a historic Ring Magazine card streaming live on Netflix.

Hosted by Josh Denzel, the fighters had plenty to say at the press conference about their upcoming matchups. See quotes below and view the full press conference on Netflix Sports YouTube and The Ring’s YouTube.

TYSON FURY QUOTES

On returning to the ring after 16 months and deciding to come back: When I walk away every time from boxing, I have zero intentions of returning. However, after a few months, I’m bored of the normal life – dropping the kids off at school, taking the dog for a walk, that sort of stuff – and I miss the game. I miss the boxing. I miss the press conferences. I miss everything that comes with the big fights.

On being the hunter again in the heavyweight division: For the first time in forever, I’m the hunter. I’m not the hunted. And we all know that when I’ve always been the hunter in the past, I’ve always fucked people up. I feel actually sorry for Arslanbek Makhmudov because he’s got to face me – an injury?free Tyson Fury and on good form. I’ve had good preparation and I’m going to make an example of him.

On what he plans to do to Arslanbek Makhmudov on fight night: I’m going to lay him unconscious on Saturday night at Tottenham. I’ll be like the game cock on top of Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and he’ll be like the knocked?out man, spark out on the floor on the canvas looking up thinking, “What the fuck just happened there?” But it’s no shame, because like he said, he’s fighting the great Tyson Fury. And not only will I do it to him, I’ll do it to all of them as well, like I’ve done many times in the past before.

On what version of Tyson Fury fans will see on April 11: Speedy, skillful, handsome and destructive – 100%. The one thing about me is I’ve never lost my speed or my reactions. I can put my hands down, let a heavyweight try and punch me in the face, and get out of the way of 99% of them. 

ARSLANBEK MAKHMUDOV QUOTES

On headlining a Ring Magazine card on Netflix against Tyson Fury: To be honest, very excited. Really excited to be in this kind of event, in this big show with these big names. I’m very happy and can’t wait for Saturday night.

On the pressure of the biggest stage of his career so far:  I don’t have nothing pressure because God prepared me for this moment all my life……And I believe this is my time. It’s my hunting. That’s it.

On what fans should expect from him against Tyson Fury: We are going to give the fans exactly what they deserve – a good fight. I think both styles are a good mix for fans. Let’s believe in some action. Two big guys go in the ring to kill each other. Just one game plan: to land a lot of punches and don’t receive punching for myself. That’s it. Very simple.

On whether he believes he can be the first man to stop Tyson Fury: Tyson Fury is a great boxer. In boxing we have rules – you have to go for count, you have to go for good boxing. This is what I want to do: to box good. This is my goal. What’s going to happen, we don’t know. We’ll know Saturday night. 

CONOR BENN QUOTES

On evolving after the first Eubank loss and what fans will see on Saturday: I had to grow. I had to become a better fighter to beat Eubank and not fight the same kind of fight. And that’s what I’d done. As for this fight, you’re going to get the old welterweight Benn back.

On returning to his natural welterweight and feeling dangerous again: It’s the weight I’ve been most dangerous at my whole career…..it’s now time for me to come back down to my natural weight. People say I can’t do it – I’ve done it – and get that world title and solidify my legacy. But ultimately, Regis is my world title shot. He is in the way of my world title. It was the first name that was mentioned to me and it was straight away, “Yeah, of course, no problem. When? Six weeks? No problem. I’ll be ready.”

On going four years without a knockout and what that means here: In the nicest possible way, I’m extremely violent and dangerous. But ultimately, for me, you’ve got to remember: I’ve been competing at a weight that’s not my weight for the past two, three years. Fighting at 154, fighting at 160 – it’s not my weight. These are big guys that I’ve been mixing it with. So for me to fight somebody my own size for a change, it’s exciting. I know the weight I’m most dangerous.

REGIS PROGRAIS QUOTES

On moving up in weight to face Conor Benn at 150 lbs: My plan was to go up anyway. So when they called me about it, I was just like, “Yeah, of course. Let’s do it.”

On fighting again in the UK and the British boxing fans: The British fans are great, bro. I don’t have no problem fighting in front of the British fans because they love boxing. I mean, it’s not my country, it’s not my home, but at the same time, they embrace boxing just like they love us. So I’m cool with it.

On what a win over Benn on this Netflix stage would mean: After this, I mean, I feel like it’ll be whatever I want. I can say whatever I want. I can call anybody who I want and tell them what I want. After a fight like this, people won’t have to come to me with opportunities – I’ll come to them, and that’s how it’ll be.

JEAMIE TSHIKEVA QUOTES

On his physical advantages and Richard adapting to full heavyweight: In a way Richard’s got to get used to the weight too. Obviously, it’s only been a year since he’s been, I think, sitting at a heavyweight weight and he’s got to get used to fighting at that weight. Look, we’re doing 12 rounds. We’re going to wait and see on Saturday how it goes, to be honest.

RICHARD RIAKPORHE QUOTES

On the opportunity of fighting for the British title on Netflix: I think it’s just a major opportunity. I think this will be the first ever highest?televised British title fight in the history of boxing, and I’m happy that I get to be a part of that. We’ve got some champs over there, some legends – Lennox Lewis, David Haye – they all won this title. And I think now I think about legacy. 

FRAZER CLARKE QUOTES

On his intentions for the fight: For any of you guys that think I’m just turning up here to take part, you’re absolutely crazy. You obviously don’t know me well enough. That’s never been in my DNA. There’s never been a fight where I don’t leave every ounce of myself in that ring. This is not about going in there and just surviving. I’m coming here to win and to win well. 

JUSTIS HUNI QUOTES

On knowing Frazer from the amateurs and what he brings: I always felt like we were going to meet at some point in our career, and yeah, now’s the time. Just my boxing ability and movement, speed. I think when I put it all together, it’s going to be a tough challenge for him.

About Ring Magazine: 

Since its acquisition by His Excellency Turki Alalshikh in November 2024, The Ring has entered a new era, reinforcing its status as boxing’s most legendary and authoritative voice. The magazine has showcased many of the sport’s biggest fights and most iconic

moments, most recently Shakur Stevenson vs Teofimo Lopez at a sold out Madison Square Garden, British boxing’s most talked about match-up between Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn, as well as the legacy-defining showdown between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford in Las Vegas, often described as “the fight of the century.” The Ring delivers world-class global coverage with unrivaled access to boxing’s top stars. Building on its rich heritage, the magazine continues to document the sport at the highest level whilst shaping the present and preserving the legacy of boxing. 

About Netflix: 

Netflix is one of the world’s leading entertainment services offering TV series, films, games and live programming across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members can play, pause and resume watching as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, and can change their plans at any time. 

London, April 2 — His Excellency Turki Alalshikh and Ring Magazine have confirmed three
changes to the undercard of the upcoming Tyson Fury vs Arslanbek Makhmudov on Saturday
11th April, broadcast globally and exclusively on Netflix and available at no extra cost to your
subscription.

German middleweight Simon Zachenhuber will now face Pawel August in a six-round
contest. Zachenhuber had originally been scheduled to fight Troy Williamson.

In another change, Breyon Gorham will now take on Eduardo Costa, replacing Eduardio
Georgiev.

Finally, Mikie Tallon will now face Leonardo Blanc, replacing the previously scheduled opponent
Cristopher Rios.

These new matchups complete the updated undercard lineup ahead of fight week commencing
next week.

About Ring Magazine:
Since its acquisition by His Excellency Turki Alalshikh in November 2024, The Ring has entered
a new era, reinforcing its status as boxing’s most legendary and authoritative voice.
The magazine has showcased many of the sport’s biggest fights and most iconic moments,
most recently Shakur Stevenson vs Teofimo Lopez at a sold out Madison Square Garden,
British boxing’s most talked-about match-up between Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn, as well
as the legacy-defining showdown between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford in Las Vegas,
often described as “the fight of the century.”

The Ring delivers world-class global coverage with unrivaled access to boxing’s top stars.
Building on its rich heritage, the magazine continues to document the sport at the highest level
whilst shaping the present and preserving the legacy of boxing.
About Netflix:

Netflix is one of the world’s leading entertainment services offering TV series, films, games and
live programming across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members can play, pause and
resume watching as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, and can change their plans at any
time.

London, March 2nd: His Excellency Turki Alalshikh and Ring Magazine announce the
stacked undercard for Fury vs Makhmudov at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday
April 11th, to be streamed live on Netflix.

The main card will be co-headlined by Conor Benn (24-1-0) and two-time former world
champion Regis Prograis (30-3-0).

Benn returns to North London, where he recently defeated Chris Eubank Jr in their
second bout, looking to make another statement against the experienced and explosive
Prograis.

Benn said: “April 11th can’t come soon enough, returning to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
again, where I made history against Eubank Jr means everything to me. My last fight there

showed the world exactly who I am and what I’m about. Fighting on the biggest stages, in
the biggest shows, I fear no one! I’m fully locked in and ready to deliver another statement
performance.”

Prograis said, “Last time I fought in London, Conor Benn was on my undercard, so this is
a full-circle moment for me. But this circle will close with me teaching him a lesson on
April 11th. He’s not fighting some weight-drained super middleweight. I am in shape and
will bring home this victory.”

British Heavyweight Champion Jeamie TKV (9-2-0) defends his title against Richard
“The Midnight Train” Riakporhe (19-1-0) in the first all-British bout of the night.
Riakporhe has fourteen stoppages to his name and most recently defeated Tommy Welch
on the Eubank Benn II undercard, while TKV enters off the back of his victory over Frazer
Clarke.

Rounding off the main fight card, Frazer Clarke (9-2-1) takes on highly regarded
Australian contender Justis Huni (12-1-0), with both heavyweights looking to bounce
back from their most recent defeats. Clarke’s was a split decision loss to Jeamie TKV,
while Huni suffered a tenth-round knockout defeat to Fabio Wardley in June 2025.
Huni said: “I’m truly honoured to be fighting in London on such a huge card headlined by
Tyson Fury. The UK has a proud boxing tradition, and it means a lot to perform in front of
these fans. April 11 is another important step in my journey, and I’m coming to deliver a
strong performance and show I belong at the very top.”

Ahead of the main card, six preliminary fights will be streamed on The Ring’s YouTube
channel and on Tudum.com.

The first contest in the prelims features Troy Williamson (22-4-1) and Simon
Zachenhuber (28-0-0).

Williamson said: “Fighting in a UK stadium, on an undercard of Tyson Fury, and to be part
of an event run by Turki and his team, motivates me more than I have ever been before in
my career, I’m looking forward to putting on a show for everybody involved.”

Felix Cash (16-1-0) returns to the ring for the first time since his last fight in the summer
of 2024, where he was defeated by Tyler Denny in a fifth-round stoppage. Facing him is
Liam O’Hare (13-2-0) who is stepping up to try and secure the biggest win of his career.
In the third all-British clash of the night, Elliot Whale (13-0-0) will look to defend his
undefeated professional record against Tom Hill (12-4-0).

Whale said: “I can’t explain how happy I am at getting the chance to fight in a massive
stadium like Tottenham Hotspur. It’s such an honour to box on an event like this. I’m very
thankful for the people that made this happen.”

Hector Avila Lozano (3-7-1) faces Sultan Almohammed (2-0-0), the unbeaten rising star
from Saudi Arabia in a lightweight clash as Almohammed aims to go three from three in
Ring Magazine events.

Mikie “The Omen” Tallon (11-0-0) takes on Cristopher “El Vago” Rios (11-3-0) as he
looks to further his unbeaten professional record, stepping back into the ring at
Tottenham Hotspur Stadium after defeating Fezan Shahid on the undercard of Eubank
Benn II.

Breyon “Grind Time” Gorham (21-0-0) faces the unbeaten Eduard Georgiev (3-0-1) in
his first clash on UK soil, also looking to protect his perfect professional record.

The complete lineup is detailed below:
Main Card (to be streamed on Netflix)
Tyson Fury vs Arslanbek Makhmudov
Conor Benn vs Regis Prograis
Jeamie TKV vs Richard Riakporhe
Frazer Clarke vs Justis Huni

Prelims (to be streamed on YouTube)
Troy Williamson vs Simon Zachenhuber
Felix Cash vs Liam O’Hare
Elliot Whale vs Tom Hill
Hector Avila Lozano vs Sultan Almohammed

Mikie Tallon vs Cristopher Rios
Breyon Gorham vs Eduard Georgiev

Tickets are on sale now via Ticketmaster. Additionally, visit the official Netflix page and
click ‘Remind Me’ to ensure you’re notified on April 11 when the action begins.

About Ring Magazine:
Since its acquisition by His Excellency Turki Alalshikh in November 2024, The Ring has
entered a new era, reinforcing its status as boxing’s most legendary and authoritative
voice.
The magazine has showcased many of the sport’s biggest fights and most iconic
moments, most recently Shakur Stevenson vs Teofimo Lopez at a sold out Madison
Square Garden, British boxing’s most talked-about match-up between Chris Eubank Jr.
and Conor Benn, as well as the legacy-defining showdown between Canelo Alvarez and
Terence Crawford in Las Vegas, often described as “the fight of the century.”
The Ring delivers world-class global coverage with unrivaled access to boxing’s top stars.
Building on its rich heritage, the magazine continues to document the sport at the highest
level whilst shaping the present and preserving the legacy of boxing.
About Netflix:
Netflix is one of the world’s leading entertainment services offering TV series, films, games
and live programming across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members can play,
pause and resume watching as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, and can change
their plans at any time.

London, February 26, 2026 – His Excellency Turki Alalshikh and Ring Magazine announce the
co-main event for Fury vs Makhmudov at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday April 11th.
The British welterweight Conor “The Destroyer” Benn (24-1, 14 KOs) returns to North
London, where he famously defeated Chris Eubank Jr in his second bout, to face former
two-time world champion Regis “Rougarou” Prograis (30-3, 24 KOs).
The highly anticipated heavyweight clash between Fury and Makhmudov, promoted by The
Ring, will be streamed live, globally only on Netflix at no additional cost.

Benn said: “April 11th can’t come soon enough, returning to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium again,
where I made history against Eubank Jr means everything to me. My last fight there showed
the world exactly who I am and what I’m about. Fighting on the biggest stages, in the biggest
shows, I fear no one! I’m fully locked in and ready to deliver another statement performance.”
Prograis said, “Last time I fought in London, Conor Benn was on my undercard, so this is a
full-circle moment for me. But this circle will close with me teaching him a lesson on April 11th.
He’s not fighting some weight-drained super middleweight. I am in shape and will bring home
this victory.”
Tickets for the event are on sale now via Ticketmaster. Additionally, visit the official Netflix page
and click ‘Remind Me’ to ensure you’re notified on April 11 when the action begins.
Full card to be announced soon.
About Ring Magazine:
Since its acquisition by His Excellency Turki Alalshikh in November 2024, The Ring has entered
a new era, reinforcing its status as boxing’s most legendary and authoritative voice.
The magazine has showcased many of the sport’s biggest fights and most iconic moments,
most recently Shakur Stevenson vs Teofimo Lopez at a sold out Madison Square Garden,
British boxing’s most talked about match-up between Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn, as
well as the legacy-defining showdown between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford in Las
Vegas, often described as “the fight of the century.”
The Ring delivers world-class global coverage with unrivaled access to boxing’s top stars.
Building on its rich heritage, the magazine continues to document the sport at the highest level
whilst shaping the present and preserving the legacy of boxing.
About Netflix:
Netflix is one of the world’s leading entertainment services offering TV series, films, games and
live programming across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members can play, pause
and resume watching as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, and can change their plans at
any time.

About Tottenham Hotspur Stadium:
Tottenham Hotspur Stadium opened in April 2019 – with a capacity of 62,850, it is the largest
club football stadium in London. Its iconic, single-tier South Stand alone holds 17,500
spectators and is the largest of its kind in the UK, providing a wall of noise that contributes to
the stadium’s unique atmosphere. The stadium is renowned for its multi-use capabilities, with
the world’s first dividing, retractable grass surface providing the ability to host a range of major

events all year round, in addition to Tottenham Hotspur matches. Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
has been confirmed as a host venue for the UEFA EURO 2028 in the UK and Ireland.

LONDON, ENGLAND – February 16, 2026 – Today at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, unbeaten WBC heavyweight world champion Tyson “The Gypsy King” Fury (34-2-1, 24 KOs) and fearsome knockout artist Arsalanbek Makhmudov (21-2, 19 KOs) came face to face at the press conference ahead of their blockbuster showdown on Saturday, April 11. The highly anticipated heavyweight clash, promoted by The Ring, will take place at the iconic North London venue and stream live, globally only on Netflix at no additional cost. 

Hosted by Josh Denzel and featuring Ring Magazine CEO Rick Reeno, the fighters had plenty to say at the press conference about their upcoming matchup. See quotes below and view the full press conference on Netflix’s YouTube and Ring Magazine’s YouTube.

Tickets for the event will go on sale Tuesday, February 17 via Ticketmaster. Additionally, visit the official Netflix page and click ‘Remind Me’ to ensure you’re notified on April 11 when the action begins. 

TYSON FURY QUOTES

On why he is returning to boxing: I came back for one reason only and that’s to make boxing great again. Since I retired for the fifth time over a year ago, boxing for me has gone on a downward slope. It’s become quite boring and boxing is at its maximum potential when Tyson Fury’s actively fighting….so believe it and I’m coming back to make boxing great again. 

On facing the dangerous Makhmudov: If I fight a pudding, I don’t get turned on by that. I have to fight somebody dangerous to make me want to even train, make me want to even take it seriously. So now I know I’ve got a dangerous knockout artist in front of me… I’m looking forward to coming here putting on a real show at Tottenham. And most of all, I’m looking forward to punching his face right in. 

On the “Turning Point” for his return: I suppose the biggest turning point in this comeback, for me, was a tragedy that happened with Anthony Joshua. I was on holiday with my family in Thailand for Christmas just to get away from the rain, and then I hear all that bad news that’s gone on and I thought, you know what? Life is very, very short and very precious and very fragile and anything could happen at any given moment and you should never put things off until tomorrow or next year or next week because tomorrow is not promised to nobody.

On Training in Thailand vs. the UK: When I’m in Thailand and I wake up and it’s 30 degrees outside, I’m like, this is awesome. Let me go. Training [in] sunshine is the key. And if you wake up in the rain, you feel shit. And if you wake up in the sunshine you feel happy. And I want to feel happy.

On His Critics: Does the lion care about the opinions of sheep? No, he doesn’t. Who cares? I read a quote on Instagram recently and it said, does the honeybee waste his time telling their flies that their honey is better than cow shit? He doesn’t. He just lets ’em crack on with it. And that’s what I do. I crack on with my own business….I’m not anything but a fighter. And that’s what I’ll always be. And that’s why I’m back again, sticking in my own lane and doing what I always do.

On his official prediction: Probably a big right hand KO….Round six, why not? Sounds like a good even number.

ARSLANBEK MAKHMUDOV QUOTES

On the opportunity to fight a legend: For me it’s dream fight. All my life, I go for my goal. My parents told me… when I was nine years old… you’re going to be champion world. So I just follow my goals and enjoy this time now and enjoy my trip to this goal. I’m looking forward to April 11 to reach my goal.

On whether Fury is overlooking him: I believe when we took a picture almost 10 [years] ago, it was like signal from God for this day going to be happen. One day I going to meet with this guy and beat him. That’s my goal and I believe God prepared this for me. 

On his strategy for the fight: I don’t know what’s going to happen for the fight, but of course we will prepare for all distances.

About Ring Magazine: 

Since its acquisition by His Excellency Turki Alalshikh in November 2024, The Ring has entered a new era, reinforcing its status as boxing’s most legendary and authoritative voice. 

The magazine has showcased many of the sport’s biggest fights and most iconic moments, most recently Shakur Stevenson vs Teofimo Lopez at a sold out Madison Square Garden, British boxing’s most talked about match-up between Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn, as well as the legacy-defining showdown between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford in Las Vegas, often described as “the fight of the century.” 

The Ring delivers world-class global coverage with unrivaled access to boxing’s top stars. Building on its rich heritage, the magazine continues to document the sport at the highest level whilst shaping the present and preserving the legacy of boxing. 

About Netflix: 

Netflix is one of the world’s leading entertainment services offering TV series, films, games and live programming across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members can play, pause and resume watching as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, and can change their plans at any time. 

About Tottenham Hotspur Stadium: 

Tottenham Hotspur Stadium opened in April 2019 – with a capacity of 62,850, it is the largest club football stadium in London. Its iconic, single-tier South Stand alone holds 17,500 spectators and is the largest of its kind in the UK, providing a wall of noise that contributes to the stadium’s unique atmosphere. The stadium is renowned for its multi-use capabilities, with the world’s first dividing, retractable grass surface providing the ability to host a range of major events all year round, in addition to Tottenham Hotspur matches. Tottenham Hotspur Stadium has been confirmed as a host venue for the UEFA EURO 2028 in the UK and Ireland. 

London, February 12, 2026: Fury vs Makhmudov will take place at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday 11 April, with the landmark London venue confirmed to host the heavyweight bout. The event is promoted by The Ring and will be broadcast globally on Netflix at no additional cost to its 300+ million members.

The press conference will take place on Monday 16th February at 4pm GMT / 11am EST at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, giving fans and media a first look at both heavyweights ahead of the fight. The press conference will stream live on Ring Magazine and Netflix’s YouTube channels. Assets will be available on the Netflix Media Center after the press conference. 

Fury is coming out of retirement to face Makhmudov, who brings a 21-2 professional record with 19 stoppages. The Russian-born heavyweight has competed across North America and Europe and most recently recorded a 12-round unanimous decision victory over Dave Allen in October 2025. 

The Ring previously staged both sold out Eubank Jr vs Benn fights at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with their first encounter named Fight of the Year at the recent Ring Awards in New York. 

Tickets for the event will go on sale Tuesday 17th February via Ticketmaster. 

Members of the media who wish to attend the press conference can apply to media@ringmagazine.com. 

Additionally, visit the official Netflix page and click ‘Remind Me’ to ensure you’re notified on April 11 when the action begins. 

About Ring Magazine: 

Since its acquisition by His Excellency Turki Alalshikh in November 2024, The Ring has entered a new era, reinforcing its status as boxing’s most legendary and authoritative voice. 

The magazine has showcased many of the sport’s biggest fights and most iconic

moments, most recently Shakur Stevenson vs Teofimo Lopez at a sold out Madison Square Garden, British boxing’s most talked about match-up between Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn, as well as the legacy-defining showdown between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford in Las Vegas, often described as “the fight of the century.” 

The Ring delivers world-class global coverage with unrivaled access to boxing’s top stars. Building on its rich heritage, the magazine continues to document the sport at the highest level whilst shaping the present and preserving the legacy of boxing. 

About Netflix: 

Netflix is one of the world’s leading entertainment services offering TV series, films, games and live programming across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members can play, pause and resume watching as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, and can change their plans at any time. 

About Tottenham Hotspur Stadium: 

Tottenham Hotspur Stadium opened in April 2019 – with a capacity of 62,850, it is the largest club football stadium in London. Its iconic, single-tier South Stand alone holds 17,500 spectators and is the largest of its kind in the UK, providing a wall of noise that contributes to the stadium’s unique atmosphere. The stadium is renowned for its 

multi-use capabilities, with the world’s first dividing, retractable grass surface providing the ability to host a range of major events all year round, in addition to Tottenham Hotspur matches. Tottenham Hotspur Stadium has been confirmed as a host venue for the UEFA EURO 2028 in the UK and Ireland. 

Press Contacts: 

MONTREAL, January 28, 2026 — Arslanbek Makhmudov is heading back into battle in the UK, where he will challenge former heavyweight king Tyson Fury in a major showdown to be presented on Aprill 11 by The Ring on Netflix.

“I am thrilled about the opportunity. I’m coming to deliver a War. Tyson Fury has been a big champion. I will be more ready than ever to leave with a massive W.” said Montreal-based Russian-born fighter Arslanbek Makhmudov.

“We’re not going to England just to show up. We’re going there to do everything possible to seize this opportunity,” added Eye of the Tiger president Camille Estephan.

Arslanbek Makhmudov (21-2, 19 KOs) will not be entering unfamiliar territory in the United Kingdom. Last October, the fighter known as “The Lion” traveled to Sheffield, where he stunned hometown favorite David Allen by unanimous decision. By capturing Allen’s WBA Intercontinental heavyweight title, Makhmudov reclaimed his place in the WBA world top 10. It also marked the second consecutive victory for the Marc Ramsay protégé, who had stopped unbeaten Olympian Ricardo Brown in just one round last June in Quebec City.

After a retirement lasting just over 15 months, Tyson Fury (34-2-1, 24 KOs) is once again back in pursuit of a third reign atop the heavyweight division. In November 2015, the Brit shocked Wladimir Klitschko in Germany to become the unified heavyweight champion. Nearly five years later, in February 2020, the “Gypsy King” reclaimed the world title by stopping American puncher Deontay Wilder. He held the crown until May 2024, when he lost a split decision to legendary Ukrainian Oleksandr Usyk. Fury later lost his rematch bet in December of that same year, falling again—this time by unanimous decision.

By Norm Frauenheim

Just when it looked as if boxing was facing only questions about shifting politics amid uncertainty over whether familiar faces are moving on as new ones move in, along comes Tyson Fury with an announcement that says one thing isn’t changing.

Fury, or at least his promoter, says he’s coming back.

Isn’t he always?

Fury’s comeback, unabridged and uninterrupted, will continue sometime next year, his promoter Frank Warren told Sky Sports last Wednesday.

It’s long been thought that Fury’s comeback would inevitably lead to Anthony Joshua. Apparently, however, Fury has other ideas, according to Warren, who says he is pursuing the third leg in a trilogy with Oleksandr Usyk.

“The fight he really wants is another bout with Mr. Usyk,’’ Warren said. “Those were wonderful, very close fights that were a pleasure to watch. He keeps talking about it.’’

Trouble is, Usyk isn’t talking about it. Neither are fans. Usyk’s disciplined mastery of tactical skill won the first two fights, both in 2024.

The scorecards from each are a sure indication that Usyk has figured out Fury. In May, Usyk wins by split decision. In a December rematch, the Ukrainian is the unanimous winner, 116-112 on all cards. Everybody knows where this one is headed. Been there. Done that. Why do it again?

Fury probably knows that. He also knows the promotional art better than even Warren. His comeback talk about Usyk is perhaps just an opening salvo in firing up fans for the one UK bout still on their most-wanted list. Fury-Joshua still makes money, although only Saudi Prince and promoter Turki Al-Sheikh can afford to pay the purses for a fight that would belong in London instead of Riyadh.

If it can’t be put together, it’s time for the 38-year-old Fury to get off his career-long comeback trail and make room in the media landscape and public imagination for Moses Itauma.

Itauma, a powerful 20-year-old UK heavyweight, is poised to join light-heavyweight David Benavidez, super-flyweight Jessie “Bam” Rodriguez and newly-minted junior-middleweight Jaron “Boots” Ennis in a looming race to become the face of a game suddenly without one.

From retirement to rematch, it’s not clear what’s next for Terence Crawford and Canelo Alvarez.

Crawford is 38. Within a couple of weeks after losing to Crawford in front of a reported Netflix audience of more than 42 million, Canelo, 35, announced plans to undergo elbow surgery.

Maybe Crawford and Canelo fight a couple of more times. Maybe, not. Maybe, they fight each other once again. Maybe not. Whatever they do, they’re a lot closer to an exit than Fury Road, a comeback seemingly never near an end

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – December 20, 2024 – Ahead of the highly anticipated rematch between unified heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Usyk (22-0, 14 KOs) and former unified heavyweight champion Tyson Fury (34-1-1, 24 KOs) faced off one last time at the official weigh-in before they go toe-to-toe on Saturday, December 21 live worldwide on DAZN PPV (11 a.m. ET) from the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. 

Also in action is a heavyweight clash between top teenage prospect Moses Itauma (22-0, 10 KOs) and Australian knockout artist, Demsey McKean (22-1, 14 KOs).

On the main card, former WBC 154-pound interim titleholder Serhii Bohachuk (24-2, 23 KOs), will take on Ishmael Davis (13-1, 6 KOs). Fans can then look forward to watching  undefeated Johnny Fisher (12-0, 11 KOs) square off against former Commonwealth title challenger David Allen (23-6, 18 KOs). Former Olympian, Peter McGrail (10-1, 6 KOs) will face off against an undefeated Rhys Edwards (16-0, 4 KOs), while Scotland’s Isaac Lowe (25-2-3, 8 KOs) will fight former IBO Super Bantamweight title challenger Lee McGregor (14-1-1, 11 KOs) in a featherweight bout. Fighting out of Ukraine, undefeated Daniel Lapin (10-0, 4 KOs) will take on another undefeated fighter, Dylan Colin (14-0, 4 KOs) in a light heavyweight bout, and to kickoff the night, fans will witness knockout specialist Andrii Novytskyi (13-0, 10 KOs) confront Edgar Ramirez (10-1-1, 4 KOs) in an exciting heavyweight bout. 

The Oleksandr Usyk / Tyson Fury rematch and full undercard is a DAZN Pay-Per-View (PPV) worldwide event and will cost £24.99 in the UK / $39.95 in the US, with no DAZN subscription necessary. The PPV also comes with a seven-day free trial of the whole DAZN platform. The Usyk vs. Fury fight and all DAZN content can be watched anywhere and everywhere on any device via the DAZN App. For more information and to purchase the fight, please visit www.dazn.com. 

Please see below for official weights and see what fighters had to say ahead of tomorrow’s event:

MAIN EVENT: WBC WORLD, WBO WORLD, WBA WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE – 12 ROUNDS  

Oleksandr Usyk vs.      ????????????Tyson Fury

Shypyntsi, Ukraine                             Lancashire, United Kingdom

22-0 (14 KOs)                                     34-1-1 (24 KOs) 

226 LBS                                              281 LBS

CO-MAIN EVENT: HEAVYWEIGHT BOUT (201+ LBS) – 10 ROUNDS 

Moses Itauma                         vs.      Demsey McKean 

Kent, United Kingdom                                    Queensland, Australia 

22-0 (10 KOs)                                                 22-1 (14 KOs)

249.1 LBS                                                       251.1 LBS

LIGHT MIDDLEWEIGHT BOUT (154 LBS) – 12 ROUNDS 

Serhii Bohachuk vs.      ??????????????????Ishmael Davis 

Vinnytsia, Ukraine                                          Yorkshire, United Kingdom 

24-2 (23 KOs)                                                13-1 (6 KOs)

153.1 LBS                                                      153.6 LBS

HEAVYWEIGHT BOUT (201+ LBS) – 10 ROUNDS 

Johnny Fisher                    vs.      David Allen 

London, United Kingdom                        Yorkshire, United Kingdom 

12-0 (11 KOs)                                                23-6, 18 KOs

241.1 LBS                                                      257.6 LBS 

INTERNATIONAL SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT CONTEST – 10 ROUNDS

Peter McGrail vs. Rhys Edwards

10-1 (6 KOs) / 16-0 (4 KOs)

Liverpool, United Kingdom / Merseyside, United Kingdom

129.8 LBS / 129.1 LBS

WBA CONTINENTAL USA FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE BOUT (130 LBS) – 10 ROUNDS

Isaac Lowe                           vs.      ????????Lee McGregor 

Lancashire, United Kingdom                          Edinburgh, Scotland 

25-2-3 (8 KOs)                                               14-1-1 (11 KOs)

125.1 LBS                                                      125.9 LBS

WBA CONTINENTAL LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP – 10 ROUNDS

Dylan Colin vs. Daniel Lapin

Meurthe-et-Moselle, France / Wroclaw, Poland

14-0 (4 KOs) / 10-0 (4 KOs)

173.1 LBS / 174.9 LBS

WBC INTERNATIONAL HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP – 10 ROUNDS

Edgar Ramirez vs. Andrii Novytskyi

10-1-1 (4 KOs) / 13-0 (10 KOs)

Ecatepec de Morelos, México / Odessa, Ukraine

261.1 LBS / 237 LBS

PRELIM:  BANTAMWEIGHT BOUT (135 LBS) – 4 ROUNDS

Joshua Ocampo vs.      Muhammad Alakel

Cúcuta, Colombia          Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

8-33-5 (6 KOs)                1-0

133.4 LBS                        134.1 LBS

Oleksandr Usyk

Q: You just faced Tyson Fury for the last time before stepping into the ring. What are you feeling?

“Nothing.”

Q: None of this gets to you. How do you pull that off?

“My angel helps me, God and Jesus help me, as well as my family and my team.”

Q: Who will you dedicate this fight to?

“I’ll let you know tomorrow.”

Demsey McKean

Q: 24 hours to go. What are your thoughts?

“I just have to get in there and do the business. We’ve put in the hours and twelve weeks of training camp has brought us to this moment. I’m excited and more than ready for this.”

Q: What is your plan on messing up his (Moses’) party?

“Winning the fight. Punching him more than he punches me and inflicting more damage than he does to me. We’re confident in our game plan and skillset and just have to put it all in play.”

Moses Itauma

Q: Tell us what’s going on in the mind of Moses Itauma?

“Nothing really, I’m ready to go. I’m trying to perform in front of the crow and put on a big show and do my thing. I’m more than pleased and I’ve put myself in this position and now I’m going to grab it with both hands and not let go.”

Q: We’ve seen you just a little bit heavier in this fight than previously. Is there any thought behind that?

“I’ve got more weight in my punches now. We’ll see tomorrow.”

Ishmael Davis

Q: You’re fighting on late notice, what does it mean to you to be here?

“It means everything. I want to thank the man to my right, Eddie, for giving me the chance again. These are the chances that make great people. Let’s see what he’s got.”

Q: What kind of statement do you need to do?

 “I just need to get the win. That’s all I need to do.”

Serhii Bohachuk

Q: How do you feel about the change in opponent? He’s very ambitious.

“It doesn’t matter who. I’m ready for this fight. I’ve prepared, had many different sparring partners. I have a lot of experience.”

Q: A win takes you closer to your dream, how does that feel?

“I’m happy and excited of course. It’s a big chance for me and I want this.”

Q: Very proud to have that Ukrainian flag behind you. What would this mean to you and your country tomorrow night?

“In Ukraine, it’s a hard time right now. I want to motivate my people. I want to win and show my people that Ukraine is full of winning people.”

Dave Allen

Q: You’ve said this is the best you’ve ever felt because you’ve never been so motivated to win this fight against Johnny Fisher. What is burning those fires so brightly for Dave Allen?

“This is the one. This is the one people will remember me for, and I want to be remembered for being one hell of a man.”

Q: If Johnny Fisher comes steaming at you, what do you believe happens?

“A big mistake. This is a big step up, no one’s ever run up to me before. I’ve been beaten, I’ve been out-boxed, but I will never be out-fought. If he wants to play those games, you know what they say about feathers and stuff, so we’ll see.”

Johnny Fisher

Q: You’ve just heard from Dave. You’re making a ‘big mistake’ – what do you have to say about that?

“There’s no mistake in this game because I leave no stone unturned. I’m ready for whatever is thrown at me. I’ve got huge power and a huge heart and I’m going to show all of that tomorrow.”

Q: This is perhaps the biggest challenge you have. Why is this so important to you?

“My next fight, whoever it is, is always my biggest challenge. The opposition never matters to me. It matters what I can do. I’m going to do what I do every time and that’s bringing heat.”

Lee McGregor

Q: Tempers rising, that tends to be the case less than 24 hours to go. Tell us what was being said between yourself and Isaac Lowe?

“That’s the good thing about this. We get to find out tomorrow, all the talking has been done. It’s time to go to work.”

Q: What do you believe in the ring will be the difference and his reality once the bell rings?

“He’s saying that I’ve got no heart. That’s one thing I’ve got. You cannot question my heart and I told him that. I said we’ll see tomorrow.”

Q: What do you believe this moment represents in the Lee McGregor story?

“This is a new chapter for me. I’ve been through so much, got through so much and now’s my time to announce myself to the world, and I’m going to do it. Trust me.”

Isaac Lowe

Q: You just heard that this is Lee McGregor’s chapter. What do you have to say about that? 

“We’ll see tomorrow night when he gets put to sleep. He said it’s the best version of Lee McGregor, and I hope it is. It’s the best version of Isaac Lowe and trust me, he is getting put to sleep tomorrow night. I am going to die in that ring.”

Q: There’s talk that this could be the fight that steals the show. What are your thoughts on that?

“Yes, 100%. There’s no pressure, this is the fun part. This will be a good fight, Lee’s a tough kid, coming forward. But there’s no one like me. I’m strong, I’m fit and I’m ready to go.”

Andrii Novytskyi

Q: Your opponent is almost 20 pounds heavier. What do you need to do only 24 hours away from getting into the ring?

“It’s okay he’s a little bit heavier. I’m heavy too but I am faster. I am so excited for this fight and I will show you a very good fight. December 21, let’s do it.”

Peter McGrail

Q: You finally get a faceoff with your opponent 24 hours away from getting into the ring. What are your impressions?

“Big respect to Rhys and his team for taking this fight on short notice. It gives me the opportunity to perform on the biggest stage of them all. It feels a lot more real now and we’re ready to go tomorrow.”

Q: “For you, this is perhaps the heaviest you’ve ever been. How is that going to work for you?” 

“That’s made fight week much easier for me, I’ve been eating very well and it’s going to show in the ring. I’m feeling ready, feeling strong, I’m in great shape and looking forward to performing on Saturday.”

Rhys Edwards

Q: When the call came to face Peter McGrail this week, what made this an easy decision for you and your team?

“It was an easy choice, I’m grateful to be here. Can’t wait to get in tomorrow and do the job.” 

Q: You’re an unbeaten fighter. What gives you the self belief that you can turn up here from what you’ve seen of Peter McGrail and cause what would be an upset because of the late notice?

“I know Peter is a very good fighter but I believe in myself also. I’ve sparred some top people and I know I’m very good. I’m looking forward to it.”

Mohammed Alakel

Q: What are your thoughts to your opponent saying it will be a great show?

“I’m excited, all the hard work is done and it’s now time to have fun.”

Joshua Ocampo

Q: What problems can you cause young fighters like Mohammaed Alakel who are just finding their feet as professionals?

“Would be my experience. There’s a lot of fights, a lot of times I’ve been in the ring. I hope it will be a very good show.”

About DAZN:

DAZN is the home of European football, women’s football, boxing and MMA, and the NFL (excl. USA). We are building the ultimate sports entertainment platform, based on premium sports rights, world-leading tech, and multi-platform distribution. DAZN believes that fans from across the globe should be able to watch, read, bet, play, share, socialise, buy tickets and merchandise, all in one place, with one account, one wallet and on one app. For more information on DAZN, our products, people, and performance, visit?dazngroup.com. 

By Norm Frauenheim

Oleksandr Usyk, never a man of many words, has had even fewer this week, just days before a sequel that has all of social-media’s usual suspects talking. 

But Usyk doesn’t have to say much, if anything, before a rematch full of its own redundancies. His name already says it best.

Oleksandr, which is of Greek origin, means:

To Defend.

It’s a goal as clear as it is risky against Tyson Fury, whose heavyweight resume is a masterpiece collection of adjustments within fights and between them.

To wit: He doesn’t lose rematches. 

Then again, neither does Usyk. 

That’s about to change Saturday (DAZN) in Riyadh in a rematch perhaps as significant as any in the history of boxing’s fabled flagship division.

Of course, Fury, unlike Usyk, has had a lot to say this week without really saying anything at all.

“The biggest adjustment I’ve made is to grow a beard,’’ Fury said after he arrived in Saudi Arabia to a parade that added a few octaves and exclamation points to what over-the-top means.

Fury has always been better with lyrics and one liners than just anybody in the crowded trash-talking corner of the noisy game. It’s part lousy-lounge act. But it’s also a tactic, one he has used with great effect throughout his heavyweight reign. 

After opening bell, his brilliant feint is a weapon. Before opening bell, he weaponizes his words. 

It worked against Deontay Wilder, especially in their first rematch when the dangerous Wilder tried to blame the sudden loss of his singular power on fatigue he said he suffered by wearing an armored medieval costume in his ring walk. 

Truth is, Wilder didn’t know who the heck he was anymore. He had lost his feared identity, his armor of confidence, on the night Fury got up from his power six years ago in Los Angeles, in a wild draw. 

Fury then reminded him of that repeatedly — hauntingly — during the weeks and months before their first rematch — won by Fury in a seventh-round TKO — February 2020 in Las Vegas.

Wilder was embarrassed then. Later, he was destroyed in a concussive conclusion to the trilogy, five knockdowns of violence that ended in Fury winning an 11th-round KO October 2021, also in Vegas.

Fury dominated Wilder, both physically and psychologically, perhaps finishing his career. 

The damage done to Fury is still an open question, one that Usyk surely hopes to answer Saturday in the rematch to his contentious split decision over Fury seven months ago. 

Fury swears he’s in better condition. He says he went into seclusion in training at a camp in Malta. He says he didn’t speak to his wife for months. She might have been relieved. Just joking, I think. This time, he says he won’t clown around. This time, he says he promises to deliver only pain. 

Blah-blah-blah. By now, we’ve heard it all from Fury.

So, too, has Usyk.

A difference, however, is that Usyk, unlike Wilder, doesn’t really listen. At least, he doesn’t appear to react to anything said or sung by Fury. Usyk — poised, patient and menacing — is his own counsel. 

Amid everything he didn’t say this week, he had one comment, quotable if you’re the media and perhaps foreboding if you’re Usyk.

“Don’t be afraid,’’ Usyk said at a final news conference that included an unblinking, 12-minute stare-down. “I will not leave you alone.’’

By now, Fury knows that. Since May, I’m guessing he has had dreams of Usyk, always there and always in his face. 

In a style that borders on a battle of attrition, the smaller Usyk, stubborn and stealthy, tirelessly works his way inside. It a risk, big enough to be costly for Usyk, especially in the early rounds.

Fury knows that. Fury’s immense advantages in size and power could end this fight before the sixth round. If, however, Usyk is able to push the fight into the seventh, then the eighth and again into the ninth, perhaps he has a chance to finish what he could not in their first fight. 

That’s when he hurt a fading Fury badly. He didn’t stop him, although there’s a solid argument that it should have ended, then and there. But a knockdown was ruled, which was enough for Usyk to win on two of the three scorecards.

It was close, but close is when Usyk is at his very best. Fury is best at pulling off the dramatic. Only Fury got up from the full impact of the lethal power in Wilder’s right hand. Only he could survive that right once more, get up all over again and knock out Wilder in a scary third encounter. 

Guess here: Each fighter knows the other very well by now. For Usyk, the task is to endure an early assault, then launch one of his own later. For Fury, the test is to end it, close the show as fast as possible.

There’s a temptation to predict that this one ends in a draw. Yes, that’s cynical, but some cynicism is a fight fan’s best defense. Riyadh, Matchroom, Top Rank and DAZN would love a third fight. 

A close first fight suggests that the second will be too, which also would probably lead to a trilogy. Neither Usyk nor Fury is young. But they’re not exactly old either. Usyk is 37. He’ll be 38 on Jan. 17. Fury is 36. He’ll be 37 on August 12.

A rematch clause is in place, according to Fury promoter Frank Warren.

“It’s contracted,” Warren told Boxing News. “That will be the case if Tyson wins, providing nobody retires.”

Providing, too, that Usyk, the defending champion, doesn’t do what his name has always told him:

To Defend.

RIYADH – (December 19, 2024) – Unified heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Usyk (22-0, 14 KOs) and former unified heavyweight champion Tyson Fury (34-1-1, 24 KOs) held their final press conference today at the Riyadh Season ahead of their highly anticipated rematch on Saturday, December 21 live worldwide on DAZN PPV (11 a.m. ET) from the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Further action on the card will feature former WBC 154-pound interim titleholder Serhii Bohachuk (24-2, 23 KOs) who will face British boxer Ishmael Davis (13-1, 6 KOs) in a 12-round super welterweight bout, after Israil Madrimov was forced to withdraw due to illness. Rising heavyweight star Moses Itauma (22-0, 10 KOs) will take on Australian Demsey McKean (22-1, 14 KOs), as well as undefeated Johnny Fisher (12-0, 11 KOs), who squares off against former Commonwealth title challenger Dave Allen (23-6, 18 KOs).

Former Commonwealth Games Gold Medallist Peter McGrail (10-1, 6 KOs) takes on last-minute replacement Rhys Edwards (16-0, 4 KOs) in a super featherweight bout, and Scotland’s Isaac Lowe (25-2-3, 8 KOs) will face former IBO Super Bantamweight title challenger Lee McGregor (14-1-1, 11 KOs) in a featherweight bout.

Also in action are unbeaten Daniel Lapin (10-0, 4 KOs) taking on fellow undefeated lightweight prospect Dylan Colin (14-0, 4 KOs), knockout artist Andrii Novytskyi (14-0, 10 KOs) facing off against Edgar Ramirez (10-1-1, 4 KOs) in a heavyweight clash, and local talent Mohammed Alakel (1-0) squaring off against Joshua Ocampo (8-33-5, 6 KOs).

The entire card will be available on DAZN platforms worldwide starting at 11 a.m ET.

This is what the fighters and their teams had to say:

Oleksandr Usyk (22-0, 14 KOs)

Q: What is it all about for you on Saturday night?

“Now we just have the performance. Talks, cameras, lights, kind of show. Everything is going to be taking place Saturday night on the 21st.”

Q: What is your final message to Tyson before Saturday?

“Don’t be afraid. I will not leave you alone. See you on Saturday.”

Tyson Fury (34-1-1, 24 KOs)

Q: What is this fight all about for Tyson Fury on Saturday night? 

“I’m going to dish out a whole lot of pain.”

Q: There seems to be an extra menace about you this week?

“I’ve got nothing to say apart from there’s going to be a whole lot of hurt and pain in this fight, you watch. The talking’s been done. The first fight, I talked, I joked, all my career. This time I’m serious, I’m going to do some damage here on Saturday night. Watch me go to work.”

Q: What do you want to tell Usyk ahead of Saturday night?

“I can’t wait for Saturday night. Thank you everybody involved. God bless.”

Frank Warren, Founder and Chairman, Queensberry Promotions

Q: Talk to us about Saturday’s event and how you’re backing your man, Tyson Fury

“The biggest fight is happening on Saturday night. The rematch. The first fight was magnificent, it was a great fight. It had everything, a very close fight, a cigarette paper in the decision. This time around, I know these guys, they’ve shared the ring together for 12 rounds. They know each other’s strengths and weaknesses. It’s going to be about who can exploit the weaknesses, who has the strength to exploit the weaknesses. I believe Tyson Fury will come through this, and I don’t believe this fight will go the distance. He’s in great shape, a great frame of mind for this fight. Fighting mode. We’re going to get an extra, extra, extra special event. Do not blink after the first bell.”

Eddie Hearn, Chairman, Matchroom Boxing

Q: Are you supporting Tyson Fury in this fight?

“Regarding the main event, I’ve got a lot of history with Oleksandr Usyk, but I am backing Tyson Fury. Of course, he’s the Brit. People ask me all the time, “who’s going to win this fight?” and I’ve said this: Oleksandr Usyk is an incredible fighter and it will take something extraordinary to beat him on Saturday night. But, and I know we’ve had our differences, Tyson Fury is capable of extraordinary things. His victory against Wladimir Klitschko in Germany, I watched that on a laptop in a hotel in America, I thought he had absolutely no chance. He won every single round. When he fought Deontay Wilder in America, I thought he had absolutely no chance. He was robbed in the first fight, he smashed him to pieces in the second fight. Two generational great heavyweights, two credits to the sport. May God bless you both on Saturday night, but most of all, I can’t believe I’m saying it, may Tyson Fury be victorious on Saturday night for Britain and get the championship back.”

Bob Arum, CEO of Top Rank Boxing
Q: Give us your thoughts on Saturday night and where it stands historically as well.

“I’m not going to talk about great fights and great fighters because it will be a great fight, and these are great fighters. I’m not only Tyson Fury’s co-promoter, I am also a Tyson Fury fan. If anyone watched the second Wilder fight, Tyson knew what he had to do and won that fight in a real one-sided way. I’m looking forward to him fighting in that way again, and being successful on Saturday night. That being said, he’s fighting a tough, skilled Ukrainian. Personally, like many Americans, I am so proud of his people, how hard they have been fighting, and what they have been accomplishing. Oleksandr Usyk typifies the strength of Ukraine, but on Saturday night he’s fighting one of the best heavyweights of all time, Tyson Fury. I’m very confident that our man Tyson will emerge victorious.”

Sergey Lapin (Oleksandr Usyk’s Team Director)

Q: You’ve got 12 rounds of data now as a team. What’s going to happen on Saturday, have you had to change much?

“This upcoming Saturday, we will have the battle of two great champions, where the current champion will prove to the other that he is the stronger man. Usyk is the champion and you will see that on Saturday night.”

Egis Klimas (Oleksandr Usyk’s Manager)

Q: Tell us why he (Usyk) will get the job done?

“Listen, Oleksandr Usyk has been the champion on the road. He’s a warrior on the road. In May, Oleksandr Usyk proved to the whole world when he became the undisputed champion of the world, winning against Tyson Fury. We don’t have anything else to prove. We did everything, every fight that Oleksandr fought, he never fought at home. He fought in the UK, in the United States, then he came here to fight in Riyadh, it’s always on the road. Now, after he’s already been undisputed we’re coming here and we have to prove again, which is no problem. We will see Saturday night once again who is Oleksandr Usyk.”

Alex Krassyuk (Head Promoter, K2 Promotions)

Q: Last time we had a press conference, you had a lovely short poem for us. I’m curious what you have for us tonight?

“Who could ever imagine that a small common young kid from Crimea, one day becomes the two-time undisputed champion? His dream came true, our dream came true, his fans dreams came true. There is a man in the kingdom who has a habit of making dreams come true. Your excellency, thank you very much.”

“And one more gratitude goes to the Gypsy King. We know that he is not very good at making the rematches, but we must admit that courage and bravery lives in his heart. Tyson, thank you for being here.”

“Just one day separates us from the battle and from its outcome. May strength and valor accompany them in the battle. Good luck to both of them and let the best man win, again.”

Spencer Brown (Tyson Fury’s Manager and Founder, Goldstar Promotions)

Q: You’ve heard from Egis Klimas. What is the case for Tyson Fury?

“Tyson’s had an amazing camp, he’s lived like a monk. As you can see, he’s very focused. He thinks that he’s had something taken off him and he wants it back. On Saturday night, he will get it back. Don’t underestimate a gypsy man, a traveling man from Lancaster, who has fighting in his blood. He’s very focused and we believe on Saturday night, he’s going to bring that belt back to England where it belongs.”

Demsey McKean (22-1, 14 KOs)

Q: You’ve heard it all week. All the talks about what Moses can do and what he’s going to go on to achieve. You are a 6 foot 6 Australian tower, and you’ve got your own plans, right?

“First and foremost, I’d like to thank His Excellency and the beautiful kingdom of Saudi Arabia for hosting us and giving us the platform to be able to come here and fight and showcase it all. Yeah…it’s all the Moses show isn’t it. But, I don’t mind that. I’m used to being the underdog and I’ve had a really good training camp, my sparring has been good and I’m ready to disrupt the Moses show on Saturday.”

Moses Itauma (10-1, 8 KOs)

Q: You’ve just heard from the man (Demsey McKean) who’s looking to disrupt the Moses Itauma show on Saturday. What are you thinking?

“Listen, I’m just a teenager from Chatham, it’s mad that I’m on the same table as Tyson Fury, Frank Warren, Eddie Hearn, Oleksandr Usyk. I’m just grateful for this opportunity, I’m going to take it with both hands. I’m not looking past Demsey McKean. For me, this is like my world title fight.”

Johnny Fisher (12-0, 11 KOs)

Q: Dave Allen sounds ready to go. He said he feels “very, very confident” of upsetting you on Saturday night. What’s going on in your head Johnny?

“Would expect nothing less from Dave Allen, the White Rhino, to be ready to go. That’s what we’ve trained for these past 12 weeks. I’ve been training for longer than that though, I’ve been training for four long years, and now this is my time to show people what I can do.”

Q: What happens when you put a rhino and a bull together?

“There’s a possibility for some carnage for sure. Put a rhinoceros and a bull in the same ring and there are bound to be some fireworks. I’m not going to take a backwards step, and I’m sure that he won’t either. I’m doing this for my family. I’m doing this to make everyone proud that comes to support me, but I’m also doing it for the people at home. You all give me strength everytime I fight.”

Q: Can we expect a big knockout on Saturday night?
“Winning is all that matters, victory at all costs. It’s an honor to be on such a big card, but I’m aware of what my job is. My job is to beat Dave Allen, whether that’s in Saudi Arabia, somewhere back in England, or anywhere around the world. This just happens to be on the biggest stage on the biggest platform. My job stays the same, win.”

Q: Do you have a message for Dave Allen?

“As you said he’s a good friend, but there are no friends in that boxing ring and on Saturday night we’ll be trading leather. I’m sure that I’ll shake his hand before, and that I’ll shake his hand after, but for now and when we’re in that ring we’re enemies.”

Dave Allen (23-6, 18 KOs)

Q: Do you think Johnny Fisher might be nervous going into this fight?

“Yeah, I think so. I am, we both should be. It’s a huge occasion, it’s a huge fight. Johnny Fisher, someone asked me last night, you’re good friends. I’ve got a son, if he grows up to be half the man Johnny Fisher is I’d be a happy man. This is not personal, this is sport. But, I’m very confident I will do the job. I’ve worked really hard and I genuinely believe this is my time to finally fulfill my potential.”

Q: You’ve sparred Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk. Curious, what do you think will happen in the main event?

“The two best heavyweights of my generation. I’m a huge fan of both, everyone knows the regard I hold them both in. I personally foresee a Fury win, but these two are the greatest heavyweights of my time and I’m so fortunate to be here and witness it in person. Hopefully it can be half as good as last time.”

#          #          #

ABOUT OLEKSANDR USYK VS. TYSON FURY 2: REIGNITED

Undisputed Heavyweight World Champion Oleksandr Usyk (22-0, 14 KOs) faces former unified heavyweight champion Tyson Fury (34-1-1, 24 KOs) in a highly anticipated rematch on December 21, 2024, at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, live worldwide on DAZN PPV. The blockbuster main event will be complemented by a stellar undercard featuring elite talent across multiple divisions, including a clash between former WBC 154-pound interim titleholder Serhii Bohachuk (24-2, 23 KOs) and British boxer Ishmael Davis (13-1, 6 KOs) in a 12-round super welterweight bout and a heavyweight showdown between top teenage prospect Moses Itauma (22-0, 10 KOs) and Australian Demsey McKean (22-1, 14 KOs). Also in action are undefeated Johnny Fisher (12-0, 11 KOs) squaring off against former Commonwealth title challenger Dave Allen (23-6, 18 KOs), former Commonwealth Games Gold Medallist Peter McGrail (10-1, 6 KOs) taking on last-minute replacement Rhys Edwards (16-0, 4 KOs) in a super featherweight bout, and Scotland’s Isaac Lowe (25-2-3, 8 KOs) facing former IBO Super Bantamweight title challenger Lee McGregor (14-1-1, 11 KOs) in a featherweight bout. Plus, unbeaten Daniel Lapin (10-0, 4 KOs) taking on fellow undefeated lightweight prospect Dylan Colin (14-0, 4 KOs), knockout artist Andrii Novytskyi (14-0, 10 KOs) facing off against Edgar Ramirez (10-1-1, 4 KOs) in a heavyweight clash, and  local talent Mohammed Alakel (1-0) squaring off against Joshua Ocampo (8-33-5, 6 KOs).

DAZN subscribers can access the fight via the DAZN app on any device, from smart TVs to smartphones and tablets, with no additional contracts or hidden fees. For more information and to purchase the fight, please visit www.dazn.com.

RIYADH – December 18, 2024 – As we get closer to another historic heavyweight boxing matchup, unified heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Usyk (22-0, 14 KOs) and former unified heavyweight champion Tyson Fury (34-1-1, 24 KOs), conducted open workouts for fans and media today at the Riyadh Season, ahead of their highly anticipated rematch on Saturday, December 21 live worldwide on DAZN PPV (11 a.m. ET) from the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. 

When interviewed in the ring by DAZN announcer Claudia Trejos, Fury offered few words other than promising “a lot of pain,” “smash and damage” and “hurt, serious hurt,” for his opponent.   

When Trejos told Usyk later of his opponent’s promises and no-nonsense behavior, the champion confidently shrugged and offered a simple “okay.”

Speaking with the DAZN studio team after the brief workout, Fury’s trainer, SugarHill Steward, commented on his fighter’s all business attitude. “Tyson Fury is just ready right now, along with myself. He’s always had a silly demeanor, playing around, but always been serious. But this is a different side of him. He’s just ready, 100 percent.”

Reflecting on being in the evening co-main event, surging heavyweight contender Moses Itauma (10-0, 8 KOs) remarked “when you’re in the ring, you don’t really pay attention whether you’re co-main event or three fights before. It’s obviously nice and I am grateful for it, but the main thing is to be in the main event, to be the top man. Obviously, if I beat Demsey McKean, it doesn’t matter if I’m the first fight or the last fight, I still beat him. ‘

Stepping back into the ring for the first time in over a year, Itauma’s opponent Demsey McKean (22-1, 14 KOs) is confident in his preparation. “I feel like I’m coming in in the best condition possible. It’s been a great training camp, I know every fighter says that on fight week but I honestly think it’s been my best one. My body feels great, I’ve been sparring really well. I’ve never been a good sparrer in the past, but in my sparring I’ve been hitting all my strides lately as well, so I’m really looking forward to it.”

In the first of the night’s trio of featured heavyweight fights,undefeated Johnny Fisher (12-0, 11 KOs) told the studio team that “I’m the underdog everytime I get into the ring. And listen, I’ve got to be like that because if you want to be the best you need to have that mentality. You have to prove yourself every single time. And by doing that, you’re doing it in the gym, as well, where you learn as you go. I want to show what I’ve learned as I’ve gone. “
 

Fisher will take onveteran David Allen (23-6-2), who promised to end his night before the final bell. “This is boxing, and I fully expect to knock [Johnny Fisher] out. I expect to level him completely. I’m good enough to beat him, 100%. My talent beats him, and beats anyone else outside of the top 10. I’ve always believed that. I can box with my eyes shut. This fella is not in my league.”

Immediately following the open workout, six fights emanated live from Riyahd’s Boulevard World, put on by Queensbury Promotions in conjunction with Matchroom Boxing and K2 Promotions. 

In international welterweight action, Scotland’s Luke Bibby (8-0, 2 KOs) outclassed Jordan Ellison (15-56-5, 1 KO) of England over six rounds to a decision victory (59-55). 20-year-old Englishman Levi Barnes(7-0, 2 KOs) took Guadalajara’s Ramiro Garcia Lopez (8-17, 7 KOs) the distance, earning a decision victory (40-36) across four rounds. 

Riyadh native Abdullah Darkazanly (1-0, 0 KOs) made his professional debut in his hometown, as he faced Costa Rica’s Jose Aguirre (2-9, 0 KOs) over four rounds in an international middleweight contest. Darkazanly didn’t disappoint in his debut and took home the decision victory (40-36).

Super lightweight Aadam Hamed (5-0, 2 KOs), of Dubai, impressed in his bout against Colombian Jesus Gonzalez (3-6, 0 KOs), earning a TKO 26 seconds into round 4. 

Rounding out the card featured super welterweight Chris Kongo, (17-2, 7 KOs) of London, clashing with Colombia’s John Mosquera (5-21, 1 KO) in a six-round bout. Kongo displayed a tough performance and cemented his 17th victory in a 60-54 decision.

DAZN subscribers can access the action this weekend via the DAZN app on any device, from smart TVs to smartphones and tablets, with no additional contracts or hidden fees. For more information and to purchase the fight, please visit www.dazn.com. 

RIYADH – December 17, 2024 – In anticipation of a monumental clash in heavyweight boxing, unified heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Usyk (20-0, 13 KOs) and former unified heavyweight champion Tyson Fury (33-0-1, 24 KOs), made their grand arrivals today at the Riyadh Season, ahead of their highly anticipated rematch on Saturday, December 21 live worldwide on DAZN PPV (11 a.m. ET) from the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Also making their grand arrivals were co-headliners, top contenders, and rising stars featured in the undercard. Former WBC 154-pound interim titleholder Serhii Bohachuk (24-2, 23 KOs) will now face British boxer Ishmael Davis (13-1, 6 KOs) in a 12-round super welterweight bout, after Israil Madrimov was forced to withdraw due to illness. Also in attendance was rising heavyweight star Moses Itauma (22-0, 10 KOs) and his opponent, Australian Demsey McKean (22-1, 14 KOs), as well as undefeated Johnny Fisher (12-0, 11 KOs), who squares off against former Commonwealth title challenger Dave Allen (23-6, 18 KOs).

Former Commonwealth Games Gold Medallist Peter McGrail (10-1, 6 KOs) is taking on last-minute replacement Rhys Edwards (16-0, 4 KOs) in a super featherweight bout, and Scotland’s Isaac Lowe (25-2-3, 8 KOs) will face former IBO Super Bantamweight title challenger Lee McGregor (14-1-1, 11 KOs) in a featherweight bout.

Also in action are unbeaten Daniel Lapin (10-0, 4 KOs) taking on fellow undefeated lightweight prospect Dylan Colin (14-0, 4 KOs), knockout artist Andrii Novytskyi (14-0, 10 KOs) facing off against Edgar Ramirez (10-1-1, 4 KOs) in a heavyweight clash, and local talent Mohammed Alakel (1-0) squaring off against Joshua Ocampo (8-33-5, 6 KOs).

Here is what the fighters had to say during their grand arrivals today:

OLEKSANDR USYK

We spoke with Tyson Fury and he promised his excellency that he will knock you out in round 13. How do you feel about that?

“It’s only talk. We will see. Whatever happens is God’s will.”

Right now, all eyes are on you. The world is watching as we close 2024 with you as the main event. How does that make you feel?

“It will be a great fight, I feel really good. I think that I will win.”

Oleksandr, I saw you today working out in the gym going through your routine. Is it now just a case of staying loose and active until Saturday?

“Yeah, today was easy, I was just doing cardio and stretching. Just want to stay active until Saturday.”

You seem very confident. Even your size, you look like a proper heavyweight. You seem very confident going into this second fight with Fury?

“Yeah, I feel really good at my weight at 222 lbs. I don’t feel too heavy, I don’t feel too light. I feel perfect.”

Oleksandr, in the first fight you said that you weren’t going to leave him alone. You said that you were going to be in front of Tyson Fury. Can we expect the same type of performance on Saturday?

“Yeah, my fans can expect something similar again. But, we may switch a few things up a little bit. My team and I have a few secrets for Saturday.”

Have you had a chance yet to sit back and realize what you’ve done? To consider the history you’ve made for yourself and all of your achievements?

“Yes, of course. This is a big opportunity for me, for my country, and for the young people that look up to me and Tyson. This is history! I want people 15 years later to remember when I fought and beat Tyson Fury twice in Riyadh.”

Will you admit that you are a great fighter now, possibly an all time great?

“Definitely.”

And pound for pound?

“I think Terence Crawford is the number one fighter pound for pound.”

What are you doing these next few days to get yourself ready for the fight on Saturday?

“I just train, relax, and speak with my family, my daughter, and my team.”

TYSON FURY

How does it feel to be the biggest show in Riyadh?

“I’m the only show in town. This time around everything is pretty much the same. It’s the biggest event of my life, so in that regard it’s pretty much the same. From one biggest event to the next biggest event. I’m looking forward to putting on a show as always.”

What can we expect differently in round 13?

“I’m going to knock him out. I’m going to give Turki what I promised him in May, a cooked rabbit in his kitchen. That’s my promise!”

What is your favorite moment of this week?

“My favorite moment will be getting my hand raised on Saturday night.”

SERHII BOHACHUK (24-2, 23 KOs)

What can we expect from you on Saturday?

“Big show, big fight coming up for me. I’m ready. It will be interesting, I’ll show my fans, the Ukrainian fans, and the industry some very interesting boxing.”

ISHMAEL DAVIS (13-1, 6 KOs)

What do you have to do on Saturday to make sure you have no regrets?

“I just need to show everyone who I am. They’ve only seen a little bit but on Saturday night they’re going to see who I truly am against a tough opponent. He’s going to come forward and bring the best out of me.”

MOSES ITAUMA (20-0, 10 KOs)

How does it feel to be considered by some as the next Anthony Joshua?

“I mean, it is nice to compare yourself against a two-time heavyweight champion. Obviously I haven’t proved nothing yet, it’s nice to hear these things but everybody’s on their own path and I’m here to set my own path also.”

DEMSEY MCKEAN (22-1, 14 KOs)

How does it motivate you to be part of such a big event?

“Obviously I want to contend for a world title myself you know so coming away with a big win here against Moses is going to propel me into a world title fight. All eyes on Moses first come Saturday night. I need to come away with a good performance, look good doing so, and make sure I get another return invite here on the beautiful Riyadh Season.”

How Important is for you to make a statement on Saturday?

“It’s everything. I’m coming off a loss in my last fight against Filip Hrgovic for a final eliminator you know so I want to get straight back into the top. Moses has a world rank that I want and need and it’s going to propel me into big fights.”

MOHAMMED ALAKEL (1-0)

How much pressure do you feel having your second professional fight in your own backyard?

“No pressure. I’m very happy and excited, I can’t wait. I got my pro debut over and done with. It should be light work now.”

JOSHUA OCAMPO (8-33-5, 6 KOs)

What are your first impressions coming into this event?

“It’s a really great opportunity for all us Colombian boxers to be here. I came here so excited, surrounded by all these beautiful people, this beautiful country. I’m just brrrrr freezing about it!”

JOHNNY FISHER (12-0, 11 KOs)

How much pressure do you feel to finish this fight before the final bell?

“The only pressure I feel is the pressure I apply to myself, my family, and my team around me. All the rest of it is enjoyment,its exposure, and all I’ve got to do is my job and listen to the people in my corner and that’ll be good.”

Your prediction for the fight?

“My prediction is victory at all costs. No matter how it comes, I’ve got to win, and this incredible journey gets to continue. I’m on the biggest stage in the world, it’s fantastic to be here, and it’s an honor to be a part of it.”

How does being part of such a big event like Riyadh Season motivate you?

“My job, I’m the fighter, and one thing I can deliver is action, adventure, and I try to get the knockout every single time I fight so I’ll be looking for that, no doubt.”

DAVE ALLEN

Doncaster De La Hoya, what’s that all about?

“Yeah, when I first started boxing as a kid everyone said that I bore a resemblance to Oscar De La Hoya, the golden boy, and because I’m from Doncaster it just kind of stuck.”

How do you feel coming into Riyadh, and making this the opportunity to establish yourself in this division?

“I’m very fortunate to be here. I’m very grateful. This is a massive opportunity, one that at my age I didn’t think would come, but it’s here now and I plan to take it with both hands.”

PETER McGRAIL

I know that there was a last minute change in your opponent, so how did that change your fight plan?

“Well, fight plans change. We just remained focused. I believe in my team, his excellency Turki Alalshikh, and everyone else involved. Queensberry, Matchroom, I had belief in them that they were going to get a replacement and that’s what happened. I stayed focused on the job. The job remains the same. I’m coming for the big performance on Saturday.”

When you have an Olympic pedigree like yourself, how does that prepare you for these sorts of last minute changes?

“I’ve been traveling around the world, representing my country for years, and we just don’t know until the draw. So, there are days where you won’t know who you’re fighting until the day before so it was nothing new. I’m very experienced and I remain focused. I stuck to the plan and I’m in great shape. I look forward to putting on a heavy performance for you all Saturday.”

ISAAC LOWE (25-2, 2 KOs)

How does being a part of Tyson Fury’s camp for this fight motivate you?

“I don’t think I need much to get motivated for this fight. I know how big a fight this is, I know what Lee brings, I know he’s a worthy contender. He comes in, he’s tough. This is the biggest fight of my life on Saturday night. I’ve got to win this belt, get it for my baby, so there’s no way on  God’s earth I’m going to lose on Saturday night. I’m going to have to get killed in there to lose this fight. I can’t wait, I’m revved up, pumped up, I’m ready to put a show on for the fans.”

LEE MCGREGOR (14-1-1, 11 KOs)

How happy are you to be here?

“I’m so happy, it’s a surreal moment but I’m soaking it all up and really excited for the weekend.”

Tell me something about the plane?

“It’s unbelievable. You need to be on it to experience it. You can’t really explain it, it’s just absolutely amazing and something I’ve never experienced before.”

Another title opportunity, how does that feeling compare with coming down from that plane coming into the crowd waiting for you to fight?

“It’s just amazing. I’ve got the chance to change myself and my family’s life this weekend and I’ve put absolutely everything into my training camp. I’ve left no stone unturned, I’m truly prepared for whatever my opponent brings and I firmly believe I will come out victorious and bring that belt back home to my daughter.”

How much lightning do we have in those hands for Saturday?

“We’ll see you on Saturday.”

DANIEL LAPIN (10-0, 4 KOs)

How do you feel about this opportunity?

“I feel that very soon, one of the fighters will have one loss and that will not be me.”

You’re closing the year in a great event. On the Heavyweights looking at the upcoming talent, how does that motivate you?

“It’s a big opportunity for me in a great event. I have passed a hard training camp with the Champion and I will show my good boxing. Thank you to everyone involved in this process including Saudi Arabia for everything they do for boxing.”

DYLAN COLIN (14-0, 4 KOs)

You’ve come a long way and French boxing is in an uprising – now it’s your turn. How are you feeling it’s motivating you?

“It’s good to be here and a good opportunity for me. Thank you very much to all organizations, my promoter and I’m ready for Saturday.”

ANDRII NOVYTSKYI (13-0, 10 KOs)

Welcome back to Riyadh. You are closing 2024 with a huge event. When asked on defending his title and his excitement to be here?

“This is my second time in Riyadh, I’m so excited and it’s a very big show. I’m fighting in this show too and I can show you what I can do with my opponent, December 21.”

How much do you know about your opponent?

“Just that he’s a Mexican guy. I’ve fought many Mexican guys but he’s just my next opponent and I will give my 100%.”

EDGAR RAMIREZ (10-1, 4 KOs):

How much pressure do you feel representing Mexico?

“I feel a little bit of pressure because I’m obviously representing the whole country of Mexico. But I’m very excited and happy to be here and I’m going to be doing exactly what we all do as Mexicans and that’s leaving it all on the line.”

ABOUT OLEKSANDR USYK VS. TYSON FURY 2: REIGNITED

Undisputed Heavyweight World Champion Oleksandr Usyk (22-0, 14 KOs) faces former unified heavyweight champion Tyson Fury (34-1-1, 24 KOs) in a highly anticipated rematch on December 21, 2024, at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, live worldwide on DAZN PPV. The blockbuster main event will be complemented by a stellar undercard featuring elite talent across multiple divisions, including a clash between former WBC 154-pound interim titleholder Serhii Bohachuk (24-2, 23 KOs) and British boxer Ishmael Davis (13-1, 6 KOs) in a 12-round super welterweight bout and a heavyweight showdown between top teenage prospect Moses Itauma (22-0, 10 KOs) and Australian Demsey McKean (22-1, 14 KOs). Also in action are undefeated Johnny Fisher (12-0, 11 KOs) squaring off against former Commonwealth title challenger Dave Allen (23-6, 18 KOs), former Commonwealth Games Gold Medallist Peter McGrail (10-1, 6 KOs) taking on last-minute replacement Rhys Edwards (16-0, 4 KOs) in a super featherweight bout, and Scotland’s Isaac Lowe (25-2-3, 8 KOs) facing former IBO Super Bantamweight title challenger Lee McGregor (14-1-1, 11 KOs) in a featherweight bout. Plus, unbeaten Daniel Lapin (10-0, 4 KOs) taking on fellow undefeated lightweight prospect Dylan Colin (14-0, 4 KOs), knockout artist Andrii Novytskyi (14-0, 10 KOs) facing off against Edgar Ramirez (10-1-1, 4 KOs) in a heavyweight clash, and  local talent Mohammed Alakel (1-0) squaring off against Joshua Ocampo (8-33-5, 6 KOs).

DAZN subscribers can access the fight via the DAZN app on any device, from smart TVs to smartphones and tablets, with no additional contracts or hidden fees. For more information and to purchase the fight, please visit www.dazn.com.

LONDON – December 2, 2024 – DAZN, the leading destination for boxing fans around the globe, will broadcast the highly-anticipated heavyweight rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury on Saturday, 21 December, 2024, live on DAZN PPV, from the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This event will serve as the grand finale to DAZN’s extraordinary 2024 boxing lineup, which has delivered a weekly schedule of premium fights featuring the sport’s brightest stars.

Usyk (22-0, 14 KOs), the reigning WBA, WBC, and WBO Heavyweight World Champion, is set to defend his titles after his historic victory over Fury (34-1-1, 24 KOs) earlier this year in Riyadh. The closely contested bout marked Fury’s first professional loss and crowned Usyk the first undisputed heavyweight champion since Lennox Lewis in 1999. Fury now seeks redemption, while Usyk looks to solidify his place among boxing’s all-time greats. Highlights from their first legendary encounter can be found on DAZN Boxing’s YouTube Channel. 

DAZN continues to raise the bar in boxing coverage, offering fans unmatched access to elite matchups and rising stars. The Usyk vs. Fury rematch underscores DAZN’s mission to provide fans with the best boxing content year-round. “This fight is the perfect conclusion to an incredible year for DAZN and boxing fans everywhere,” said Alfie Sharman, Vice President DAZN. “Usyk vs. Fury 2 exemplifies the level of world-class events we are committed to delivering regularly, bringing fans the biggest names as well as the most competitive and exciting matchups the sport has to offer.”

The blockbuster main event will be complemented by a stellar undercard featuring elite talent across multiple divisions, including heavyweight clashes between top teenage prospect Moses Itauma (22-0, 10 KOs) andthe Australian Demsey McKean (22-1, 14 KOs), and undefeated Johnny Fisher (12-0, 11 KOs) against former Commonwealth title challenger Dave Allen (23-6, 18 KOs). Fans can also look forward to former WBA 154-pound Champion Israil Madrimov (10-1, 7 KOs) taking on former WBC 154-pound interim titleholder Serhii Bohachuk (24-2, 23 KOs), Dennis McCann (16-0-1, 8 KOs) defending his European Super Bantamweight title against Peter McGrail (10-1, 6 KOs), and Scotland’s Isaac Lowe (25-2-3, 8 KOs) facing former IBO Super Bantamweight title challenger Lee McGregor (14-1-1, 11 KOs) in a featherweight bout. 

The blockbuster card is available worldwide on DAZN for $39.95. Fans purchasing the event on DAZN Pay-Per-View before Saturday, 4 December will automatically enter a sweepstake for a chance to win an all-expenses-paid VIP trip to Riyadh, including ringside seats. Information on how to enter can be found HERE.

DAZN subscribers can access the fight via the DAZN app on any device, from smart TVs to smartphones and tablets, with no additional contracts or hidden fees.

For more information and to purchase the fight, please visit www.dazn.com. 

– ENDS –

ABOUT DAZN
DAZN is the home of European football, women’s football, boxing and MMA, and the NFL in more than 200 markets. DAZN is building the ultimate sports entertainment platform, based on premium sports rights, world-leading technology, and multi-platform distribution. DAZN believes that fans from across the globe should be able to watch, read, bet, play, share, socialise, buy tickets and merchandise, all in one place, with one account, one wallet and on one app. For more information on DAZN, our products, people, and performance, visit www.dazngroup.com.   

By Norm Frauenheim –

On the career map, redemption is a risky stop. Retirement is right around the corner. So, too, is a rematch.

It could go either way for Tyson Fury, who has repeatedly called his second fight with Oleksandr Usyk Dec. 21 for the heavyweight title as a chance at redemption for his lone loss by split decision to the tireless, stubbornly resilient Usyk last spring.

The stakes, heightened by an either-or scenario, were there Wednesday at a London news conference notable more for what wasn’t said than what was. Fury didn’t have much to say. Or sing.

He’s known for turning a boxing newser into a lousy lounge act. One liners, cheap insults, a few lyrics from Bye-Bye Miss American Pie and mocking gestures have long been a part of the Fury show. 

But the well-rehearsed act wasn’t there Wednesday, perhaps because he knows it played a part in his scorecard loss in Riyadh last May.

“What’s going through my mind?’’ Fury said when asked about the looming rematch, the only time he’s ever had to come back from defeat.  “I’m just looking forward to a fantastic fight. Last time in May, it was a fantastic fight. Oleksandr won the fight, fair and square. Just looking to put on a great fight again. 

“It was very close last time, he got it by a point. A little bit more focus, a little bit more lack of complacency, and I should do the job I need to do. Nothing drastic has to change. A bit more of the same. A little bit more focus, like I say, and I will be victorious.”

The news conference was not without some theatrical touches, of course. Usyk showed up in costume, dressed like Hitman: Agent 47. It’s a film and a video game. But the eyes were all Usyk. Their intensity is impossible to disguise.

“I don’t have motivation,’’ Usyk said, cryptically.  “Only my regime, only my concentration.’’

That concentration is unmistakable. It’s also a challenge Fury couldn’t crack in May. It’s there, within Usyk, at a sustained level rare in any sport. Fury was winning the first fight through eight rounds.

In the ninth, however, Usyk found a way, throwing combinations that knocked down Fury. Fury recovered, but without the will or the energy to win a close fight. Maybe, that changes in the rematch with a more committed, better-conditioned Fury. The odds, however, make Usyk a slight favorite, in part perhaps because he knows how to win the close ones.

Usyk’s singular concentration seems to make him immune to Fury’s clever bag of tricks. Usyk might not have the power to knock out Fury. Deontay Wilder couldn’t either. Over three fights, Fury withstood Wilder’s power, which accounted for a 97.67 percent KO rate, astonishing even for the heavyweight division.

Fury got up in their first meeting, Lazarus-like, in the 12th and final round in 2018 for a draw in downtown Los Angeles. In retrospect, Fury’s ability to survive what no one else could in his initial meeting with Wilder dictated the rest of the trilogy. 

Fury didn’t exactly take away Wilder’s only real weapon, but he survived it, leaving Wilder with doubts. Fury fractured Wilder’s singular confidence in a way he has not in trying to crack Usyk’s concentration. 

Meanwhile, questions persist about what Fury has left in the wake of the Wilder rivalry, including a violent third fight. Fury won that one, an 11th-round stoppage in October 2021 in Las Vegas. But neither fighter emerged unscathed. There were five knockdowns — Wilder down three times, Fury twice. It was dangerous, definitive and dramatic.

Promoters called it:

“Once And For All.”

For Wilder, it looks as if it was. He has lost his last two fights, first a decision to Joseph Parker in December and then a fifth-round stoppage to Zhilei Zang in June. In both, he looked like a shell of the feared fighter he was against Fury.

Yet, Fury, too, often looks as if he doesn’t have the same durability. He got knocked down by Francis Ngannou, a mixed-martial arts fighter and novice boxer, yet managed to escape with a debatable split-decision. Then, he wasn’t able to overcome a late knockdown delivered by Usyk, whose versatile skillset and knowhow are seemingly inexhaustible.

In an interview this week with DAZN, Fury said he had little fear of Usyk. Wilder’s raw power, he suggested, was a more immediate threat.

“Whether it is round one, round ten or round twelve with two seconds to go – one mistake, it’s game over,’’ Fury told the streaming network,  “With Usyk, I don’t feel that much terror.’’

Fury went on to praise Usyk. He called him a good boxer.

“But there’s different levels to power,’’ Fury said. “One man can switch you off like a TV, and one man can hit you and hurt you and wear you down.’’

In the end, this one, like the last one, figures to go the distance. Question is: Can Fury still go there?

(Sept. 25, 2024) — ESPN today announced its new ESPN Original Series, The Fight Life, will premiere on ESPN+ on October 7, with subsequent linear airings across ESPN2. 

The series chronicles a year in the world of Top Rank boxing through the journeys of five of the sport’s elite boxers — Tyson Fury, Naoya Inoue, Seniesa Estrada, Teofimo Lopez, and Josh Taylor — alongside unprecedented and exclusive behind-the-scenes access with Top Rank’s executives. As the boxers prepare for some of the biggest fights of their careers, episodes document the traveling circus that is the business of the sport, offering a living, breathing, punching, 360-degree portrait of “the fight life.”

“The Fight Life showcases all the traits that make boxing so compelling: rich personal stories of sacrifice and determination, pressure-packed stakes, and of course – conflict,” said Lindsay Rovegno, Vice President of Production for ESPN Originals. “Whether you’re a diehard boxing fan or someone who just loves great characters and high-quality storytelling, this exciting new series features the unique perspectives of exceptional fighters that we’re excited to share with viewers.”

The Fight Life is produced by ESPN in association with Words + Pictures and Top Rank.
Episode descriptions and streaming/linear schedule (tentative and subject to change) are outlined below.

Episode Descriptions
EPISODE 1 | Tyson Fury: A Heavyweight Task
Premieres on ESPN+ on October 7 | Airs on ESPN2 on October 9 at 6pm ET
Tyson Fury gears up for a showdown against Ukrainian Oleksandr Usyk to crown boxing’s first undisputed heavyweight champion in 25 years. After a near-defeat to MMA star Francis Ngannou, “The Gypsy King” must prove he still sits atop the heavyweight throne. Go behind the scenes with the executives and matchmakers of Top Rank as they shape the business of boxing.
 
EPISODE 2 | Teofimo Lopez: The Giant Slayer
Premieres on ESPN+ on October 8 | Airs on ESPN2 on October 16 at 10:30pm ET
Teofimo Lopez prepares for a career-defining clash against reigning WBO junior welterweight world champion Josh Taylor. Following several subpar outings, including losing his lightweight crown to George Kambosos Jr., the Top Rank brass question if the mercurial Lopez still has what it takes. Once considered the future of boxing, Lopez has one last shot to prove he’s still one of the sport’s most sublime talents.
 
EPISODE 3 | Josh Taylor: The Crossroads
Premieres on ESPN+ on October 9 | Airs on ESPN2 on October 16 at 11pm ET
After losing his WBO belt to Teofimo Lopez, Josh Taylor must face the question: how many more chances will he have to fight at the top of the sport? Age and injury have begun to plague the former undisputed champion, but his path to recapturing his junior welterweight title starts with a rematch against past rival Jack Catterall. It’s a fight that Top Rank executives make clear will dictate Taylor’s future in the sport.
 
EPISODE 4 | Seniesa Estrada: Love & Hate
Premieres on ESPN+ on October 10 | Airs on ESPN2 on October 16 at 11:30pm ET
Seniesa “Super Bad” Estrada has dreamed of becoming the undisputed champion of the world, and she finally has her shot against fellow unified champion Yokasta Valle. Estrada is a trailblazer in women’s boxing, but to become the first-ever undisputed minimumweight world champion, she must overcome injury and the mental pressure of settling a personal score against her former promoter, Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions.
 
EPISODE 5 | Naoya Inoue: The Perfect Fighter
Premieres on ESPN+ on October 11 | Airs on ESPN2 on October 22 at 12:30am ET
Many experts consider Naoya “Monster” Inoue to be the world’s best pound-for-pound boxer, and to Top Rank executives who’ve been in the business for decades, one of the best fighters they’ve ever seen. But for many Western fans, the undefeated Japanese star is the greatest fighter you’ve never heard of. The undisputed junior featherweight champion can make a global statement when he faces Japanese boxing’s most reviled figure, Luis Nery, in front of a sold-out crowd of 50,000-plus at the world-renowned Tokyo Dome.

# # #

About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the No. 1 sports streaming platform, serving fans in the U.S. with exclusive access to more than 30,000 live sports events each year, an unmatched library of on-demand replays and acclaimed original content, and premium written articles by the top reporters and analysts from ESPN.com. Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $10.99 a month (or $109.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or in the ESPN App on mobile and connected devices. For more visit the ESPN+ Press Kit.

Oleksandr Usyk became the first undisputed heavyweight champion in 25 years as he took a 12-round split decision over Tyson Fury in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

It was a nip and tuck battle with Usyk came out strong in the first couple of rounds. Fury started to get into the fight by ripping body punches and hurting Usyk throughout the middle rounds.

In round nine, Usyk battered Fury that was set off by a huge left cross to the jaw that had Fury wobbling all over the ring and into the ropes for an eight-count. The two took turns down the stretch as it was the knockdown that proved to be the distance as Usyk won by 115-112 and 114-113 tallies. Fury took a card 114-113,

It looks like the two will do it again, as a rematch is tentatively planned for October.

Usyk said, “Yes, of course. Rematch. I am ready!”

“I believe I won that fight. I believe he won a few of the rounds. I thought I won a majority of them, and I believe it was a — what can you do — these are the decisions in boxing. We both put on a good fight, the best we could do,” Fury said, “We go back, have a little rest up, spend some time with our families, and get it back on in October.”

Opetaia Decisions Briedis Again to Reclaim Cruiserweight Title

Jai Opetaia reclaimed the IBF Cruiserweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Mairis Briedis in a rematch.

The bout was bloody battle that featured a loy of headbutts. Opetaia got out to an early lead by landing some solid power shots. Briedis came on late but it was too little, too late as Opetaia won by scores of 117-111 and 116-112 twice.

Opetaia of Australia is now 25-0. Briedis of Latvia is 28-3.

Cacace Stuns Cordina in 8; Wins Super Featherweight Title

Anthony Cacace won the IBF Super Featherweight title with an eighth round stoppage over undefeated champion Joe Cordina.

In round three, Cacace dropped Cordina with a perfect right hand. Cordina was hurt and had to hold on to barely make it out of the round.

Cacace continued to beat down Cordina until a big flurry forced a referee stoppage at 39 seconds.

Cacace, 129.8 lbs of Belfast, NI is now 22-1 with eight knockouts. Cordina, 130 lbs of Cardiff, WAL is 17-1.

Kabayel Knocks Out Sanchez in 7

In a battle of undefeated heavyweights, Agit Kabayel stopped Frank Sanchez in round 10 of their 12-round bout

In round seven, Kabayel dropped Sanchez with a hard right hand. Sanchez was beaten down and ate another hard flurry that sent him to the deck and he could not beat the count at 2:33.

Kabayel, 238.5 lbs of Bochum, GER is 25-0 with 17 knockouts. Sanchez, 238.5 lbs of Guantanamo, CUB is 24-1.

Itauma Takes out Mezencev in 2

Moses Itauma scored a second-round stoppage over Ilja Mezencev in round two of their 10-round heavyweight bout.

Itauma dropped Itauma with a perfect straight left hand and the fight was over at 50 seconds of round two.Itauma, 239.1 lbs of Chatham, ENG is 9-0 with seven knockouts. Mexencev, 231.1 lbs of Hamburg, GER is 25-4.

Chamberlain Destroys Wahab in 1

Mark Chamberlain took out Josh Wahab in the opening round of their 10-round lightweight bout.

Chamberlain dropped Wahab with a perfect short left hand. Wahab got up and was dumped again with a two lefts and rights and the fight was called off at 2:42.

Chamberlain, 134.2 lbs Portsmouth, ENG is now 16-0 with 12 knockouts. Wahab, 132.1 lbs of Accra, GHA is 23-2.

Safar Batters, Decisions Kovalev

Robin Safar scored the biggest win of his career with with a 10-round unanimous decision over former light heavyweight champion Sergey Kovalev.

Safar dominated the bout by landing heavy shots and in round 10, Safar dropped Kovalev with a hard double right hand. That happened just before the bell

Safar, 194.1 lbs of Sweden won by scores of 99-90, 97-92 and 95-94 and is now 17-0. Kovalev, 194.2 lbs of Russia is now 35-5-1.

Nyika Stops Seitz in 4

David Nyika stopped Michael Seitz in round four of an 10-round cruiserweight bout.

Nyika dropped Seitz with a body shot and the fight was stopped at 2:45.

Nyika, 198.1 lbs of Australia is now 9-0 with eight knockouts. Seitz, 198.5 lbs of Frankfurt, GER is 12-1.

Daniel Lapin destroyed Octavio Pudivitr in round one of their 10-round ;ight heavyweight bout

In round one, Lapin dropped Pudivitr in the opening round with a left hand and the fight was stopped upon Pudivitr getting to his feet at 1:47.

Lapin, 174 1/2 lbs of Ukraine is 10-0 with four knockouts. Pudivitr is 9-2.

Isaac Lowe scored a 10-round decision over Hasibullah Ahmadi in a featherweight bout.

Lowe scored a knockdown in round eight.

Lowe, who fights out of the Tyson Fury camp won by a 97-92 score and is now 25-2-3. Ahmadi is now 16-2.

 •  Tyson Fury 262 lbs. vs. Oleksandr Usyk 233.5 lbs
(Undisputed Heavyweight Championship – 12 Rounds)

   •   Jai Opetaia 198.1 lbs vs. Mairis Briedis 199.1 lbs
(Opetaia’s Ring Magazine & Vacant IBF Cruiserweight World Titles — 12 Rounds)

•   Joe Cordina 130 lbs  vs. Anthony Cacace 129.8 lbs 
 (Cordina’s IBF Junior Lightweight World Title — 12 Rounds)

•   Frank Sanchez 238.5 lbs vs. Agit Kabayel 238.5 lbs 
 (WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator — 12 Rounds)

•  Moses Itauma 239.1 lbs vs. Ilja Mezencev 232.1 lbs 
 (Vacant WBO Intercontinental Heavyweight Title — 10 Rounds)

•      Mark Chamberlain 134.2 lbs vs. Joshua Oluwaseun
Wahab  132.1 lbs 
 (Vacant WBC Silver Lightweight Title — 12 Rounds)

•  Sergey Kovalev 194.2 lbs vs. Robin Sirwan Safar 194.1 lbs 
 (Cruiserweight — 10 Rounds)

•  Daniel Lapin 174.7 lbs vs. Octavio Pudivitr 173.7 lbs 
 (Vacant WBA Intercontinental Light Heavyweight Title — 10 Rounds)

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (May 16, 2024) — It was an occasion befitting the biggest heavyweight fight of the millennium, a three-part press conference filled with pageantry and special guests.

In two days, an undisputed heavyweight champion will be crowned for the first time in nearly 25 years as WBC/Lineal champion Tyson Fury (34-0-1, 24 KOs) battles WBO/IBF/WBA ruler Oleksandr Usyk (21-0, 14 KOs) at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Fury (34-0-1, 24 KOs) and Usyk (21-0, 14 KOs) will vie to become the division’s first undisputed champion since Lennox Lewis scaled the mountaintop in 1999. 

The expected faceoff did not happen. Fury refused to look Usyk in the eyes, facing forward to the crowd. The intensity, however, was palpable. After many years of hype and conjecture, the fight is almost here. 

Eight fights in total are scheduled for the Top Rank on ESPN+ PPV stream, which begins at 12 p.m. ET/9 a.m. PT.

The pay-per-view undercard features a pair of world title fights. In the co-feature, cruiserweight king Jai Opetaia (24-0, 19 KOs) puts his Ring Magazine belt on the line against Mairis Briedis (28-2, 20 KOs), the man he dethroned for the IBF world title in July 2022. The vacant IBF world title will also be at stake in this highly anticipated rematch. 

The fighting pride of Wales, IBF junior lightweight world champion Joe Cordina (17-0, 9 KOs), defends his strap against Belfast native Anthony Cacace (21-1, 7 KOs). In other undercard bouts, undefeated heavyweight contenders Frank Sanchez (24-0, 17 KOs) and Agit Kabayel (24-0, 16 KOs) square off in a WBC title eliminator, while former light heavyweight king Sergey Kovalev (35-4-1, 29 KOs) sees action in a 10-round cruiserweight tilt versus Robin Sirwan Safar (16-0, 12 KOs).

Here’s what Fury, Usyk, and some of the undercard fighters said at Thursday’s press conference.

Tyson Fury

“I’m going to make this short and simple. I want to thank God for the victory that I’ve received already. And I want to thank everyone involved for putting this massive event on. I want to thank Usyk for turning up and challenging me. And that’s about it. Thank you to all the fans that traveled over to support me because I know it’s tough times at the moment and money is hard. So, I aim to put on a show.”

“I’m ready. I’ve got nothing to say apart from I’m ready for a good fight. And if it’s tough or easy, either way, I’ll be ready.”

Oleksandr Usyk

“I’m excited. I’m grateful for His Excellency, the reason this fight happened. Let’s make history!”

Bob Arum (Top Rank Chairman)

“In boxing, there’s a saying that the most important division is the heavyweight division. When we have the opportunity to have an undisputed heavyweight champion crowned, as we will Saturday night, it is something very, very significant. The last fighter to be crowned the undisputed champion is sitting out in the audience. It happened 25 years ago. Lennox Lewis became the undisputed heavyweight champion. Saturday night will be a very, very important night for boxing because not only will we be crowning the undisputed heavyweight champion, but the two participants in the fight have never, ever lost a fight. Now, how rare is that? How great is it that this fight on Saturday, which will be held here in the Kingdom, in Riyadh… the eyes of the world, not just boxing fans, but fans and people all over the world, will be focusing on the arena, on this fight, and believe me, it will be a great one.”

Jai Opetaia

“I feel like a whole different version of myself now. I’ve picked it up a few levels. I’m 28 now, just going into my prime. I feel like I’m the next generation of greatness coming through. I look around, and I see greatness everywhere. And I’m honored to be in front of them, but it’s my time now. I feel I’m the next generation of greatness, and I told him that last fight.”

“I’ve got nothing disrespectful to say to Briedis. I always say, everywhere we go, you earn respect, you don’t disrespect. So, Saturday night, we earn the respect again.”

Mairis Briedis

“For Jai Opetaia, I have big respect because when we fought, I saw a real warrior in the ring and how he fought {with a broken jaw}.”

Joe Cordina

“This is a massive stage to showcase my talent on. It’s a big fight. For years, I thought me and Anthony would cross paths, and we’re here now. I’m looking forward to a tough fight, and I’m looking forward to sharing the ring with him.”

“I believe in my ability the same way he believes in his ability. He believes he knows my weaknesses. I believe I know his and vice versa with the strengths. It’s going to be a good fight, and I’m looking forward to it.”

Anthony Cacace

“Listen, I’m here for a fight. I know all about Joe Cordina. I know his strengths. I know his weaknesses. I’ve waited 12 years as a pro for an opportunity like this, and it’s finally arrived on the biggest stage in world boxing for God knows how many years. So, I’m just very appreciative to be here. I’m here to win.”

Agit Kabayel

“The next opponent is Frank Sanchez. He is a good boxer, good Cuban style. I’m ready for the challenge.”

“I hate predictions. I hate trash talk in this game. I’m humble. We’ll see on Saturday night.”

Sergey Kovalev

“I’m very happy to be back to business. I’ve had one fight in four years. For me, that’s a very long rest, but I kept my body in shape, and I’m ready. This Saturday, it will be my night.”

Saturday, May 18

Top Rank on ESPN+ Pay-Per-View (12 p.m. ET/9 a.m. PT)
 

Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk, 12 rounds, Undisputed Heavyweight World Title
 
Jai Opetaia vs. Mairis Briedis, 12 rounds, Vacant IBF and Opetaia’s Ring Magazine Cruiserweight World Titles

Daniel Lapin vs. Octavio Pudivitr, 10 rounds, Vacant WBA Intercontinental Light Heavyweight Title

ESPN and Top Rank, together with DAZN, will bring the undisputed heavyweight championship of the world between WBC/lineal champion Tyson Fury and WBO/IBF/WBA ruler Oleksandr Usyk to ESPN+ PPV.

The event is available for purchase on ESPN+ PPV in the United States, in addition to DAZN PPV, and takes place Saturday, May 18, live at 12 p.m. ET/ 9 a.m. PT from Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

ESPN+ subscribers can purchase the $69.99 PPV here, separate streaming subscription required. New subscribers can sign up for ESPN+ here. ESPN+ is available on ESPN.com and the ESPN App for mobile and connected TV devices.

Fury vs. Usyk is the fourth boxing event on ESPN+ from the ESPN and DAZN collaboration following three events last year, including Day of Reckoning, the X Series PPV event, and Jake Paul vs. Nate Diaz.

Fury vs. Usyk is the most significant heavyweight battle of the millennium, as the winner will become the division’s first undisputed champion since Lennox Lewis claimed the throne in 1999.

Fury (34-0-1, 24 KOs) returns following last October’s closer-than-expected decision over former UFC king Francis Ngannou in Riyadh. He has held the lineal title since upsetting Wladimir Klitschko via unanimous decision in November 2015. Usyk (21-0, 14 KOs), an Olympic gold medalist from Ukraine, hopes to become the second man, following Evander Holyfield, to achieve undisputed status at both cruiserweight and heavyweight.

The PPV action also includes the following match ups:

• Lineal/Ring Magazine cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia (24-0, 19 KOs) battling Mairis Briedis (28-2, 20 KOs) in a rematch for the vacant IBF world title. 
• Joe Cordina (17-0, 9 KOs) defending his IBF junior lightweight world title against Belfast native Anthony Cacace (21-1, 7 KO). 
• Unbeaten heavyweights Frank Sanchez (24-0, 17 KOs) and Agit Kabayel (24-0, 16 KOs) locking horns in a 12-round WBC title eliminator. 
• British heavyweight sensation Moses Itauma (8-0, 6 KOs) stepping up versus Ilja Mezencev (25-3, 21 KOs) in a 10-rounder.
• Unbeaten British lightweight Mark Chamberlain (15-0, 11 KOs) fighting the big-punching Joshua Oluwaseun Wahab (23-1,16 KOs). 
• Former light heavyweight king Sergey Kovalev (35-4-1, 29 KOs) aiming for his second win as a cruiserweight in a 10-rounder against the unbeaten Robin Sirwan Safar (16-0, 12 KOs).
• Polish-born light heavyweight contender Daniel Lapin (9-0, 3 KOs) seeking to go 10-0 against Octavio Pudivitr (9-1, 4 KOs) in a 10-rounder.
   

ESPN.com

ESPN boxing insider Mike Coppinger will be on the ground all week from Riyadh and ringside at the Kingdom Arena on fight night providing the latest news and analysis:

• Tyson Fury and the lineal heavyweight championship – Fury shares with Coppinger his thoughts about some of the best heavyweights to ever hold the prestigious title.
• Bradley’s take: Designing a game plan for Fury and Usyk – Timothy Bradley, Jr. examines how other boxers have found success against Fury and Usyk in previous fights.
• Boxing will finally have an undisputed champion – Mark Kriegel looks at the undisputed heavyweight title fight and how the lineal champion will once again carry its meaning.

ESPN+: On Demand Shows, Archives & Premium Articles

• Top Rank: Real Time– All-access with top fighters throughout fight week as they work their way to fight night. 
• Who Do U Fight 4?– Learn what drivesthe next generation of Top Rank stars. 
• State of Boxing– Post-show coverage of the biggest fights on ESPN and ESPN+. 
• Best of Boxing Spotlight – An archive of the all-time best Top Rank fights.  

Follow @ESPNRingside: Facebook Instagram X (Twitter) TikTok

Fury vs. Usyk (All Times ET)

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (May 14, 2024) — Heavyweight history will be made soon in The Kingdom.

WBC/Lineal champion Tyson Fury (34-0-1, 24 KOs) and WBO/IBF/WBA ruler Oleksandr Usyk (21-0, 14 KOs) will battle for the undisputed heavyweight crown this Saturday at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The winner becomes the division’s first undisputed champion since Lennox Lewis accomplished that feat in 1999.

On Tuesday at Boulevard Riyadh City, the main event combatants and undercard fighters made their grand arrivals. The pageantry was befitting one of the most anticipated heavyweight fights in modern memory, a long-simmering rivalry that will play out in four days.

Fury has been the lineal champion for nearly nine years and is coming off last October’s decision over Francis Ngannou in Riyadh. Usyk survived a tough challenge before knocking out Daniel Dubois in the ninth round last August in Poland. After a Fury cut suffered in sparring scuttled their original Feb. 17 fight date, the world’s top heavyweights are finally in the same location.

The Fury-Usyk card is available on Top Rank on ESPN+ PPV in the United States beginning at 12 p.m. ET/9 a.m. PT. 

The pay-per-view undercard features a pair of world title fights. In the co-feature, cruiserweight king Jai Opetaia (24-0, 19 KOs) puts his Ring Magazine belt on the line against Mairis Breidis (28-2, 20 KOs), the man he dethroned for the IBF world title in July 2022. The vacant IBF world title will also be at stake in this highly anticipated rematch. 

The fighting pride of Wales, IBF junior lightweight world champion Joe Cordina (17-0, 9 KOs), defends his strap against Belfast native Anthony Cacace (21-1, 7 KOs).

At Tuesday’s grand arrivals, this is what Fury, Usyk, and Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum had to say. 

Tyson Fury

“It feels absolutely fantastic to be in the great Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. I’m feeling fantastic. I can’t wait to put a good show on. There’s so many people coming. It’s such an event. All the big stars are here. It’s going to be epic. I can’t wait for Saturday night.”

“If I was fighting an old dosser on Saturday night who had five fights and lost them all, it would be very important to me. Every fight I’ve ever had is important to me. Every little fight along the way was important to me. I believe that every left and right turn I’ve ever taken in my life, every time I’ve fallen over, and every time I’ve climbed up was all leading to this moment. It’s destiny.”

“I predict that somebody’s ‘0’ has got to go. And it’s going to be that team over there, unfortunately for them. Oleksandr Usyk is a great fighter. Olympic gold medalist, cruiserweight world champion, heavyweight world champion. But, unfortunately for him, he has to come against the great Tyson Fury in the era of me. I’m really looking forward to Saturday night.”

“Even if he had 20 million people screaming his name, they cannot fight for him on the night. And when there’s two men in there on the night, it’s going to be very daunting when he has the undertaker in the ring with him.”

Oleksandr Usyk

“I feel good. I’m very happy to be here. Saturday is a special day because I will have the opportunity to become undisputed for a second time. It’s great. It’s very good for me. It’s very important for my country. I like that.”

“I have a plan. It’s a better plan. And it’s a great plan.”

“I really appreciate the support from my fans and Ukrainian soldiers. I love my fans.”

Bob Arum

“Unfortunately, we don’t see enough of these events in boxing. The undisputed heavyweight championship of the world occurs so infrequently that it’s almost like a blue moon coming. And now, on Saturday night, we will have the undisputed heavyweight championship of the world here in Riyadh. And that means that after this fight, there is one ‘Baddest Man on the Planet,’ the undisputed heavyweight champion. That means everything in the sport of boxing. That means everything for fans who love boxing.”

Saturday, May 18

Top Rank on ESPN+ Pay-Per-View (12 p.m. ET/9 a.m. PT)
 

Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk, 12 rounds, Undisputed Heavyweight World Title
 
Jai Opetaia vs. Mairis Briedis 2, 12 rounds, Vacant IBF and Opetaia’s Ring Magazine Cruiserweight World Titles

Mark Chamberlain vs. Joshua Oluwaseun Wahab, 12 rounds, Vacant WBC Silver Lightweight Title

Sergey Kovalev vs. Robin Sirwan Safar, 10 rounds, Cruiserweight

Daniel Lapin vs. Octavio Pudivtr, 10 rounds, Vacant WBA Intercontinental Light Heavyweight Title 

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (May 14, 2024) — Heavyweight history will be made soon in The Kingdom.

WBC/Lineal champion Tyson Fury (34-0-1, 24 KOs) and WBO/IBF/WBA ruler Oleksandr Usyk (21-0, 14 KOs) will battle for the undisputed heavyweight crown this Saturday at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The winner becomes the division’s first undisputed champion since Lennox Lewis accomplished that feat in 1999.

On Tuesday at Boulevard Riyadh City, the main event combatants and undercard fighters made their grand arrivals. The pageantry was befitting one of the most anticipated heavyweight fights in modern memory, a long-simmering rivalry that will play out in four days.

Fury has been the lineal champion for nearly nine years and is coming off last October’s decision over Francis Ngannou in Riyadh. Usyk survived a tough challenge before knocking out Daniel Dubois in the ninth round last August in Poland. After a Fury cut suffered in sparring scuttled their original Feb. 17 fight date, the world’s top heavyweights are finally in the same location.

The Fury-Usyk card is available on Top Rank on ESPN+ PPV in the United States beginning at 12 p.m. ET/9 a.m. PT. 

The pay-per-view undercard features a pair of world title fights. In the co-feature, cruiserweight king Jai Opetaia (24-0, 19 KOs) puts his Ring Magazine belt on the line against Mairis Breidis (28-2, 20 KOs), the man he dethroned for the IBF world title in July 2022. The vacant IBF world title will also be at stake in this highly anticipated rematch. 

The fighting pride of Wales, IBF junior lightweight world champion Joe Cordina (17-0, 9 KOs), defends his strap against Belfast native Anthony Cacace (21-1, 7 KOs).

At Tuesday’s grand arrivals, this is what Fury, Usyk, and Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum had to say. 

Tyson Fury

“It feels absolutely fantastic to be in the great Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. I’m feeling fantastic. I can’t wait to put a good show on. There’s so many people coming. It’s such an event. All the big stars are here. It’s going to be epic. I can’t wait for Saturday night.”

“If I was fighting an old dosser on Saturday night who had five fights and lost them all, it would be very important to me. Every fight I’ve ever had is important to me. Every little fight along the way was important to me. I believe that every left and right turn I’ve ever taken in my life, every time I’ve fallen over, and every time I’ve climbed up was all leading to this moment. It’s destiny.”

“I predict that somebody’s ‘0’ has got to go. And it’s going to be that team over there, unfortunately for them. Oleksandr Usyk is a great fighter. Olympic gold medalist, cruiserweight world champion, heavyweight world champion. But, unfortunately for him, he has to come against the great Tyson Fury in the era of me. I’m really looking forward to Saturday night.”

“Even if he had 20 million people screaming his name, they cannot fight for him on the night. And when there’s two men in there on the night, it’s going to be very daunting when he has the undertaker in the ring with him.”

Oleksandr Usyk

“I feel good. I’m very happy to be here. Saturday is a special day because I will have the opportunity to become undisputed for a second time. It’s great. It’s very good for me. It’s very important for my country. I like that.”

“I have a plan. It’s a better plan. And it’s a great plan.”

“I really appreciate the support from my fans and Ukrainian soldiers. I love my fans.”

Bob Arum

“Unfortunately, we don’t see enough of these events in boxing. The undisputed heavyweight championship of the world occurs so infrequently that it’s almost like a blue moon coming. And now, on Saturday night, we will have the undisputed heavyweight championship of the world here in Riyadh. And that means that after this fight, there is one ‘Baddest Man on the Planet,’ the undisputed heavyweight champion. That means everything in the sport of boxing. That means everything for fans who love boxing.”

Saturday, May 18

Top Rank on ESPN+ Pay-Per-View (12 p.m. ET/9 a.m. PT)
 

Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk, 12 rounds, Undisputed Heavyweight World Title
 
Jai Opetaia vs. Mairis Briedis 2, 12 rounds, Vacant IBF and Opetaia’s Ring Magazine Cruiserweight World Titles

Mark Chamberlain vs. Joshua Oluwaseun Wahab, 12 rounds, Vacant WBC Silver Lightweight Title

Sergey Kovalev vs. Robin Sirwan Safar, 10 rounds, Cruiserweight

Daniel Lapin vs. Octavio Pudivtr, 10 rounds, Vacant WBA Intercontinental Light Heavyweight Title 

Former WBO junior welterweight world champion Chris Algieri will be co-hosting the popular and exclusive live viewer chat, with award-winning combat sports journalist Kevin Iole and popular podcaster Dan Canobbio,  in real time, during PPV.COM‘s live stream of this Saturday’s, May 18 (2 p.m. ET / 11 a.m. PT) World Heavyweight Championship boxing event headlined by the long-awaited showdown between undefeated world champions Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk.  This will be the first time, since the Mike Tyson – Michael Spinks rumble in 1988, that undefeated heavyweight champions have battled for all the belts.  The victor will become the division’s first undisputed champion since Lennox Lewis 24 years ago.  The crystal-clear HD live stream, emanating from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, will be available to viewers in the U.S. and Canada.  Priced at $69.99, it can be ordered by clicking here: PPV.COM: Fury vs. Usyk.  Below, is Chris’ analysis of Fury vs. Usyk.  PPV.COM does not require a subscription.

CHRIS ALGIERI’S FURY vs. USYK PREVIEW ANALYSIS

“This is a tremendous fight with incredible historical significance.  There hasn’t been an undisputed heavyweight champion since Lennox Lewis beat Evander Holyfield in 2000.  Boxing’s World Heavyweight Champion has always and will always be recognized as the baddest man on the planet.

“That being said.  A win for Fury solidifies him as one of the greatest heavyweights of the modern era.  Potentially being the guy that no one in history could ever beat.  He is the biggest, most athletic heavyweight in history of the sport, 6’9 280 lbs, with athletic head movement, the heart of a lion, and competitive spirit unmatched to date is a recipe for an all time great. 

“A win by Usyk locks him in as the best cruiserweight of all time as well as one of the best heavyweights of current times.  It would be hard to argue, based on his accomplishments, to see it any other way — Olympic gold medalist, unified cruiserweight world champion, unified heavyweight world champion, undefeated.  What else is there to be done at that point?

“As different as these two men are from their appearance, to their styles, to the way they operate in every aspect of their lives, we have two men who share a commonality.  They are undefeated and here to make history!” 

***************************

KEVIN IOLE

Kevin is a recipient of the Nat Fleischer Award for Excellence in Boxing Journalism, the Boxing Writers Association of America’s highest honor.  He brings over 40 years of experience covering the sweet science for Yahoo! Sports and the Las Vegas Review-Journal.  He now runs the hugely popular combat sports website KevinIole.com

DAN CANOBBIO AND CHRIS ALGIERI

Dan and Chris have moved their popular Inside Boxing Livepodcast to PPV.COM, where they produce two fresh episodes weekly, provide onsite coverage during major pay-per-view fight weeks, host their own weekly live chat every Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET, and join fight night live viewer chats.  For the latest episodes of Inside Boxing Live presented by PPV.COM, click here Inside Boxing Live – YouTube. 

About iNDEMAND and PPV.COM

iNDEMAND is an innovative partnership among three of the leading cable companies in the U.S.– Charter Communications, Comcast Cable, and Cox Communications. iNDEMAND is a company of trusted content aggregators and licensing experts, with unparalleled technical expertise and long-standing relationships with MVPDs, major sports leagues, Hollywood studios, and other entertainment and sports companies across North America. iNDEMAND delivers great content to more than 60 million cable homes and has distribution deals with more than 90 companies.  In December 2021, iNDEMAND launched PPV.COM, an innovative streaming PPV service and the first of its kind to offer interactive fan engagement during live-action sports.  With the addition of PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, to its existing cable PPV infrastructure, iNDEMAND has consolidated all forms of PPV distribution under one roof, making the company the only provider of turnkey PPV solutions for both industry partners and consumers.  For more information, go to indemand.com.

NEW YORK (May 9, 2024) — PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, returns to the ring  when it live streams to boxing fans, in the U.S. and Canada, arguably the biggest and most important fight in recent memory — the Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk World Heavyweight Championship next Saturday, May 18, beginning at 2 p.m. ET / 11 a.m. PT.  The winner of this battle between undefeated heavyweight champions — a first since the Mike Tyson – Michael Spinks rumble in 1988 — will become the division’s first undisputed champion since Lennox Lewis 24 years ago.  The Fury-Usyk world championship event will emanate live from Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.  Priced at $69.99, the Fury-Usyk world championship event can be ordered by clicking here PPV.COM: Fury vs. Usyk.    

The PPV.COM Fury vs. Usyk live stream will feature award-winning combat sports journalist Kevin Iole, popular podcaster Dan Canobbio,  and former WBO junior welterweight world champion Chris Algieri co-hosting an exclusive viewer chat in real time.

PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, will offer Fury vs. Usyk for $69.99 in the U.S. and Canada.  iNDEMAND, the parent company of PPV.COM, will also be carrying the event through its network of cable and telco operators in the U.S. and Canada via providers including, Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Optimum, Fios, Rogers, Bell, SaskTel, and Telus, among others.

KEVIN IOLE

Kevin is a recipient of the Nat Fleischer Award for Excellence in Boxing Journalism, the Boxing Writers Association of America’s highest honor.  He brings over 40 years of experience covering the sweet science for Yahoo! Sports and the Las Vegas Review-Journal.  He now runs the hugely popular combat sports website KevinIole.com

DAN CANOBBIO AND CHRIS ALGIERI

Danand Chris have moved their popular Inside Boxing Livepodcast to PPV.COM, where they produce two fresh episodes weekly, provide onsite coverage during major pay-per-view fight weeks, host their own weekly live chat every Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET, and join fight night live viewer chats.  For the latest episodes of Inside Boxing Live presented by PPV.COM, click hereInside Boxing Live – YouTube. 

About iNDEMAND and PPV.COM

iNDEMAND is an innovative partnership among three of the leading cable companies in the U.S.– Charter Communications, Comcast Cable, and Cox Communications. iNDEMAND is a company of trusted content aggregators and licensing experts, with unparalleled technical expertise and long-standing relationships with MVPDs, major sports leagues, Hollywood studios, and other entertainment and sports companies across North America. iNDEMAND delivers great content to more than 60 million cable homes and has distribution deals with more than 90 companies.  In December 2021, iNDEMAND launched PPV.COM, an innovative streaming PPV service and the first of its kind to offer interactive fan engagement during live-action sports.  With the addition of PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, to its existing cable PPV infrastructure, iNDEMAND has consolidated all forms of PPV distribution under one roof, making the company the only provider of turnkey PPV solutions for both industry partners and consumers.  For more information, go to indemand.com.