The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has confirmed Cardiff's Principality Stadium will host the biggest boxing event of the year as Anthony Joshua takes on Tyson Fury on the night of 11 December.
The fight will decide one of the greatest unfulfilled boxing rivalries of the modern era. For more than a decade Fury and Joshua have dominated British heavyweight boxing, held world titles and headlined major events, yet they have never faced each other professionally, until now.
Such is the level of global interest in the bout that the Joshua-Fury match-up is scheduled to take place in the early hours of morning, following a full night of world-class boxing in the Welsh capital. Global streaming giant Netflix will be carrying the event live, showcasing Wales and Principality Stadium to its estimated 325 million paid subscribers around the world.
Wales’ iconic Principality Stadium provides a perfect location for major boxing events with its maximum 80,000 capacity, closable roof, unrivalled sight lines and unique city-centre location.
WRU and Principality Stadium Chief Operating Officer Gavin Marshall said:
“We have a rich history of boxing in Cardiff, not just at Principality Stadium but throughout the city dating back over more than a century.
“Our ambition is to bring the very best international sporting and entertainment events to Cardiff and to Wales. The Joshua-Fury match-up, promises to be another huge night and we are delighted to be hosting this major must-see world-event at Principality Stadium.
“An enormous amount of work goes on behind the scenes to bring an event of this scale to Wales, and we look forward to continuing the work with Welsh Government, Cardiff Council, South Wales Police and our transport partners to bring this event to life. It’s been a real team effort!”
Welcoming today’s announcement, the Leader of Cardiff Council, Cllr Chris Weaver, said:
"Today's announcement is exciting news for Cardiff and reflects the city's continuing reputation as a destination for major sporting and entertainment events.
"This is one of the most anticipated bouts in British boxing history, and we are delighted that Cardiff has been chosen to host it.
“The contest at Principality Stadium has the potential to bring significant economic benefits to the city and attract visitors from across the UK and beyond.
"Major events provide a welcome boost for local businesses, support jobs, and showcase Cardiff to a global audience.
“There are still some arrangements to be finalised with the organisers, including any required changes to Principality Stadium’s premises licence, but we are looking forward to welcoming fans to the city for what promises to be an unforgettable night of boxing."
The event remains subject to licence.
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