Boxing has found itself a new destination. ‘Day of Reckoning’ pulls closer. Only minutes are left for the fight to go down. This year is ending with a boom as one of the most anticipated heavyweight cards takes place in Saudi Arabia. The card unfolds at Riyadh’s Kingdom Arena on Saturday, December 23, 2023. The highly anticipated pay-per-view event boasts a star-studded lineup, with Anthony Joshua squaring off against Otto Wallin in the main event. This is not the first time Saudi Arabia has hosted such huge boxing events.

Not long ago, Francis Ngannou and Tyson Fury, another heavyweight duo, battled it out in Riyadh. WBC heavyweight champion Fury found himself on the canvas but ultimately secured a split-decision victory against former UFC champion Ngannou. Ngannou, making his professional boxing debut, delivered a powerful left hook that knocked Fury down. The bout bagged Ngannou, a bag bigger than his entire MMA earnings. Rick Glaser, an IBHOF elector, praised the Saudi advisor, Mr. Turki Alalshikh, for his contribution to making the country a warm host for such matches.

Rick Glaser envisions Riyadh as the new venue for boxing

“Some don’t & won’t want to admit this, but #Riyadh, #SaudiArabia is now thee place for the biggest #Boxing events in the World, and all thanks to thee Excellency @Turki_alalshikh. That’s right!” said the International Boxing Hall of Fame elector in an X post. 

In 2019, the highly anticipated rematch between English boxer Anthony Joshua and American fighter Andy Ruiz unfolded at the newly constructed Diriyah Arena in the city as well. The 15,000-seat venue was specifically built for this significant occasion. Even Mike Tyson has now extended his business to Riyadh.

Mike Tyson inaugurates gym in Riyadh

Turki Al Alshikh, head of Riyadh Season, shared a significant update on his Instagram. He announced that legendary boxing champion Mike Tyson has inaugurated his own boxing club in collaboration with the Riyadh Season, thereby enhancing the sport’s presence in Saudi Arabia. The footage reveals the gym’s state-of-the-art facilities, diverse equipment, and multiple boxing rings, adorned with classic and contemporary photos of Tyson.

MMA stars and boxing legends like Junior dos Santos, Larry Holmes, and Evander Holyfield also made appearances. Tyson, after signing memorabilia, joined trainer Joe Gallagher in the ring. He demonstrated techniques and engaged with aspiring talents. Riyadh Season’s initiative to bring in renowned trainer Joe Gallagher showcases their commitment to professional training and talent development, with Tyson playing a pivotal role in this endeavor, solidifying his presence in Saudi Arabia.

With Saudi Arabia’s increasing interest in the sport, many boxers are heading to the country for their fights. Do you think the country will continue its streak even after Riyadh season?

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