Dua Lipa Drawn into Fury vs Joshua Cardiff Fight Controversy

Turki Alalshikh, a key figure in boxing promotions, revealed why the heavyweight bout between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua will be held at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium instead of London. Surprisingly, he claimed that pop star Dua Lipa declined to perform at the event, which influenced the venue choice.

Alalshikh Links Venue Choice to Dua Lipa’s Refusal

The two British heavyweight champions met publicly for the first time since the fight announcement during a press conference, where attention also shifted to the unusual decision behind selecting Cardiff as the fight location. Venues like Madison Square Garden and Wembley were initially considered, but the match is now set for Wales.

Alalshikh explained that London could not meet his requirements, pointing to stadium availability and the refusal of Dua Lipa to perform due to her dislike for boxing and possibly for 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,” said Alalshikh.

No response has been made public from Dua Lipa or her team regarding these claims.

Financial Concerns and Time Zone Considerations

Alalshikh also cited financial reasons for moving the fight to Wales, noting potential losses nearing $70 million (£52.8 million) if held elsewhere in Britain.

“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.

He pointed out that while London would not allow the stadium past 2am, Wales offered a suitable alternative within the UK, mentioning Welsh football legend Ryan Giggs as a local reference.

• Reason 1: London wouldn’t provide the stadium until 2am.
• Reason 2: Wales could accommodate the schedule.
• Location: Still within the UK, specifically Cardiff.

Joshua’s Promoter Welcomes Cardiff Venue

Anthony Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, expressed enthusiasm about hosting the fight in Britain and thanked the local boxing community for their support.

“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,” Hearn said.

He acknowledged the impact both fighters have had on British boxing and emphasized the importance of holding the fight on home soil.

“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.”

With Cardiff confirmed as the venue, focus shifts back to the highly anticipated fight, while Dua Lipa unexpectedly finds herself involved in the background discussions.