Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua Fight Could Start at 1 AM in Cardiff
Cardiff Council has received a proposal that could allow the Principality Stadium to stay open until 3:30 AM for a historic bout.
A proposed 1 AM start time for the highly anticipated boxing match between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua is being considered by Cardiff Council. An application submitted by Millennium Stadium Plc requests a special license to allow the Principality Stadium to remain open until 3:30 AM on the night of the fight, which is scheduled for December.
This late-night event would also include a live music performance until 3 AM. The stadium roof is proposed to be closed for the duration of the event, with enhanced security measures in place. Other authorities and the public have until November 3 to raise objections, after which a council hearing will be held. If no objections are filed, permission is expected to be granted.
The decision to potentially host the fight in Cardiff came after discussions where promoter Eddie Hearn advocated for a UK venue. Broadcaster Netflix reportedly favored a later start time to accommodate U.S. viewers.
Both Fury and Joshua are set to earn substantial purses of £75 million each. Initially, there was a consideration for the fight to take place in New York City, but tax implications, particularly for Joshua, made a UK venue more appealing. Joshua reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with the prospect of higher taxes in the United States, seeking to uphold a contract stipulating a British-based fight.
While Wembley Stadium was initially considered, the presence of a retractable roof at the Principality Stadium and the Welsh government's flexibility regarding late-night curfews ultimately favored Cardiff as the location.
Tyson Fury has reportedly been in rigorous training, aiming to reach peak physical condition for the bout, having previously spoken about fluctuations in his weight and lifestyle.