Why Fury vs Joshua Is in Cardiff and Dua Lipa’s Surprising Role
Turki Alalshikh revealed the reasons behind selecting Cardiff's Principality Stadium for the big Tyson Fury vs Anthony Joshua fight, highlighting some unexpected details involving pop star Dua Lipa.
Dua Lipa’s Unexpected Mention
Alalshikh claimed that Dua Lipa refused to perform at the event because she doesn’t like boxing, or possibly him personally. This comment came while explaining why London was not chosen as the venue.
“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,” said Alalshikh.
No official response has come from Dua Lipa or her team regarding this statement so far.
Financial and Timing Factors
Aside from the artist’s refusal, Alalshikh explained that hosting the fight in Britain might lead to losses close to $70 million (£52.8m). Choosing Wales allowed the event to stay in the UK but in a better time zone and with suitable scheduling.
“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.
The key issue was London's unwillingness to provide the stadium until late into the night, whereas Cardiff was willing to meet the timing needs.
The Venue Debate and Promoter's Take
Before Cardiff was confirmed, venues like Madison Square Garden and Wembley were considered. However, the final decision settled on the Principality Stadium.
Eddie Hearn, promoter for Anthony Joshua, expressed his enthusiasm for keeping the fight in Britain and praised local fans for their role in pushing for a home fight.
“I'm excited,” said Hearn. “Turki, I know we've fallen out, but I promise you this'll be the greatest night you've ever had in 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.”
The Fight Awaits, Dua Lipa Remains Uninvolved
With the venue set, attention shifts fully to the showdown between Fury and Joshua. Meanwhile, Dua Lipa finds herself unexpectedly mentioned in the pre-fight drama without any direct involvement.
- Venue: Principality Stadium, Cardiff
- Potential Venues Considered: Madison Square Garden, Wembley
- Reason for Venue Choice: Timing and stadium availability
- Financial Impact: Possible $70 million (£52.8m) loss if staged elsewhere in UK
- Pop Star Mentioned: Dua Lipa declined to perform
