Why Fury vs Joshua is Happening in Cardiff and Dua Lipa's Unexpected Role
The heavyweight clash between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua will take place at Cardiff's Principality Stadium, a choice that surprised many. Turki Alalshikh, a key boxing official, explained the reasoning behind the venue selection and unexpectedly brought pop star Dua Lipa into the conversation.
Alalshikh’s Explanation and Controversial Claim
While revealing why the fight wasn’t held in London, Alalshikh said London wouldn’t allow use of a stadium until 2am. He also claimed that Dua Lipa refused to perform at the event because she dislikes boxing and possibly has an issue with him personally.
“I will be honest today, I know that London wouldn't give me the stadium until 2am, and I know that Dua Lipa will not perform in the stadium, because she doesn't like boxing, and maybe she doesn't like me,” he stated.
No public response has come from Dua Lipa or her representatives yet, despite requests for comment.
Financial and Logistical Reasons for Cardiff
Alalshikh also mentioned financial losses could reach $70 million (£52.8m) if the fight was staged elsewhere in Britain. Choosing Cardiff meant keeping the event in the UK while working within practical constraints like time zones and stadium availability.
“Nobody questioned me about UK. I love the British people, I try to deliver everything for them. Put yourself in my shoes; there's a situation to lose $70million (£52.8m); the best is to have it in a good time zone,” he added.
London Rejected Late Hours, Wales Delivered
London was unwilling to provide the stadium late into the night, while Wales stepped up. Alalshikh highlighted that Cardiff still represents the UK and referenced Welsh football legend Ryan Giggs as a symbol of pride.
“I have two reasons, and I know London won't deliver it; they won't give me the stadium until 2am... Wales delivered it; it's still the UK, the town of Ryan Giggs, let's do it.”
Joshua’s Promoter Praises British Boxing Community
Anthony Joshua's promoter, Eddie Hearn, expressed excitement over the fight staying in Britain. He thanked local fans and credited both fighters for elevating British boxing.
“I'm excited,” Hearn said. “Turki, I know we've fallen out, but I promise you this'll be the greatest night you've ever had in boxing.”
“On a serious note, when we talked about this fight, you envisaged it for British boxing. This guy (Joshua) has changed boxing in this country. So has Tyson Fury. We are the envy of the boxing world.”
“We can't stage it anywhere else. Thank you to the British public for putting the pressure on. We couldn't do it, we failed.”
Focus Now Shifts to the Fight
With the venue confirmed, Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua can focus fully on their highly anticipated matchup. Meanwhile, Dua Lipa unexpectedly finds herself caught up in the pre-fight headlines, though her exact stance remains unknown.
