Why Fury vs Joshua Is Set for Cardiff, and Dua Lipa’s Unexpected Role

Turki Alalshikh has shed light on why the highly anticipated heavyweight showdown between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua will take place at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium rather than London. In a surprising twist, Alalshikh claimed that pop star Dua Lipa declined to perform at the event, which factored into the venue decision.

Alalshikh’s Explanation and Dua Lipa’s Refusal

During the fight announcement press conference, Alalshikh revealed that London wouldn’t grant him access to the stadium until 2am, something he considered essential. He also made an unexpected reference to Dua Lipa, saying, “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.” So far, Dua Lipa or her team have not responded publicly to these claims.

Financial and Logistical Reasons Behind the Venue

Alalshikh spoke about the financial risks involved with holding the fight in Britain, estimating potential losses of about $70 million (£52.8m). Choosing Wales was partly a strategic move to minimize those losses while keeping the event in the UK.

• Reason 1: London would not provide stadium access late enough.
• Reason 2: Wales offered a suitable alternative within the UK.

He added, “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.” The reference to Ryan Giggs was a nod to Wales’ sporting heritage.

Reactions from Anthony Joshua's Camp

Anthony Joshua's promoter Eddie Hearn expressed his excitement for the fight being held in Britain and thanked the local boxing community for making it possible. Hearn stated, “I'm excited. Turki, I know we've fallen out, but I promise you this'll be the greatest night you've ever had in boxing.”

He praised both fighters, saying, “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 Shifts to the Fight as Drama Surrounds Dua Lipa

With the venue now confirmed, all eyes turn to the biggest moment in both fighters' careers. Meanwhile, Dua Lipa unexpectedly finds herself part of the conversation, caught in the midst of the pre-fight controversy.