Boxing Chief Turki Alalshikh Criticizes Dua Lipa at Fury-Joshua Press Conference
Saudi boxing official Turki Alalshikh makes unusual public comments about the pop star's refusal to perform at the upcoming Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua fight.
Boxing official Turki Alalshikh has publicly stated that pop star Dua Lipa has declined an offer to perform at the highly anticipated Tyson Fury versus Anthony Joshua boxing match. The remarks were made during a press conference on Wednesday evening, where the two British boxers met face-to-face for the first time since the fight's announcement.
Alalshikh, who is credited with financing the bout, was speaking about the process of securing the event when he made the comments about Lipa. He expressed frustration, stating, "I know that Dua Lipa will not perform in the stadium, because she doesn't like boxing, and maybe she doesn't like me." The venue for the heavyweight clash has been confirmed as the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales, after considerations of London and New York.
He also touched upon the financial aspects of hosting the fight in the UK, noting potential losses of $70 million. Alalshikh indicated that logistical issues in London, such as stadium availability until 2 am, contributed to the decision to host it in Cardiff. He added that Wales "delivered it" and that the location "still the UK."
Promoter Eddie Hearn acknowledged the public's desire for the fight to be held in the UK and thanked the British boxing community for applying pressure to make it happen on home soil. He expressed his excitement for the event, calling it potentially the "greatest night" for Alalshikh in boxing.
Dua Lipa's representatives have been contacted for comment regarding Alalshikh's statements.
