Riyadh, December 21, 2024 – The much-anticipated Boxing Week events kicked off this past Tuesday, December 19, as part of Riyadh Season, setting the stage for an electrifying week of world-class boxing action. The headline event, a thrilling showdown between Ukrainian boxing sensation Oleksandr Usyk and British heavyweight powerhouse Tyson Fury, is set to take place this Saturday at the Kingdom Arena. This highly anticipated rematch will determine the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world, drawing significant global attention and sparking excitement among boxing fans worldwide.
The opening ceremony, held at the Boulevard Runway—a major venue within the Riyadh Season zones—was an unforgettable spectacle. The grand reception (known as the Grand Arrival) provided an electrifying atmosphere, marking the beginning of the week's festivities. The event was graced by prominent figures, including the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), Advisor Turki Alalshikh, who played a key role in bringing such a momentous sporting event to the Kingdom. His leadership has been instrumental in making Riyadh Season a landmark occasion for both local and international visitors, with this year’s edition taking the experience to new heights.
The main event of the evening is the long-awaited clash between Usyk and Fury. The pair previously faced off in May, but this Saturday's bout will be crucial in determining who truly reigns as the king of the heavyweight division. Usyk, renowned for his exceptional technical prowess, unmatched agility, and speed in the ring, is looking to cement his place in boxing history by claiming all the major heavyweight belts. A victory would make him the first fighter since Lennox Lewis to hold the WBC, WBA, IBF, and WBO titles simultaneously, a feat that would secure his legacy as one of the greatest heavyweights of all time.
On the other side of the ring stands Tyson Fury, the self-proclaimed "Gypsy King." With an immense physique and unparalleled experience, Fury is seeking to reclaim the heavyweight throne after being stripped of his titles due to various controversies. Known for his ability to bounce back from adversity, Fury aims to restore his honor and prove that he remains the dominant force in the division. This rematch will be an opportunity for Fury to show the world that he is still the measuring stick for the sport’s elite fighters.
While the main event is undoubtedly the highlight of Boxing Week, the undercard also promises to deliver a series of gripping matches featuring both seasoned champions and rising stars across various weight classes. One such eagerly awaited fight will see Ukrainian boxer Serhii Bohachuk facing off against British contender Ishmael Davis in a middleweight clash that is expected to be a spectacle of speed and power.
In the heavyweight division, British fighter Moses Itauma will meet Australian Demsey McKean in a bout that promises fireworks. Itauma, a rising star with immense potential, will be looking to make a statement against McKean, who has already established himself as a tough contender in the heavyweight landscape.
Meanwhile, the featherweight division will feature a clash between British boxer Peter McGrail and Welshman Rhys Edwards. This fight is set to showcase the technical finesse and striking power of both fighters, with McGrail aiming to continue his rise in the rankings while Edwards hopes to deliver an upset.
Another exciting featherweight matchup will see British fighter Johnny Fisher take on Dave Allen, a contest that promises to be a battle of endurance and heart. The rivalry between these two fighters will undoubtedly make for an intriguing spectacle.
In the light heavyweight division, Ukrainian boxer Daniel Lapin will face off against British fighter Dylan Colin in a highly anticipated challenge. Lapin, with his sharp boxing skills and relentless style, will be looking to continue his ascent in the division, while Colin will be eager to prove himself on the international stage.
In a middle-heavyweight bout that is sure to attract plenty of attention, Ukrainian boxer Andriy Novitsky will take on Mexico's Edgar Ramirez. Both fighters have demonstrated immense potential, and this fight is expected to be a showcase of their technical abilities and resilience under pressure.
One of the most anticipated moments for local fans will be the inclusion of Saudi champion Mohammed Alakel, who will conclude the preliminary card with a bout against Colombia’s Joshua Ocampo in a middleweight clash. Alakel, regarded as one of Saudi Arabia’s brightest boxing talents, is eager to make a name for himself on the global stage. A victory in this high-profile bout could propel him into the international spotlight, opening doors for a promising future in the sport.
With boxing’s brightest stars set to compete in Riyadh, this year's Boxing Week is shaping up to be an unforgettable event. As the city continues to develop as a major hub for international sports and entertainment, this spectacle serves as a testament to Saudi Arabia’s growing influence on the global sporting landscape. Fans from all corners of the world are expected to flock to Riyadh, as the Kingdom once again delivers a world-class event that showcases the best of combat sports.