Cardiff's Principality Stadium has dramatically emerged as the leading candidate to stage the Anthony Joshua versus Tyson Fury bout this winter in what would be a massive coup for the city.
It had previously been anticipated that the two former world heavyweight champions would clash at Madison Square Garden in New York on 20 November. However, with Joshua's contract stipulating that the fight must take place in the United Kingdom, his firm stance on the matter means Wales is now in line to host the showdown.
Venue Dispute and Contract Clause
Multiple reports say Cardiff is now seen as the venue to end the dispute between the two fighters' camps and promoters, with the Welsh Government deciding whether to extend the Principality Stadium's curfew to allow the fight to take place at 2am UK time.
The national stadium's retractable roof significantly strengthens its bid to secure the contest, with broadcasters Netflix insistent the fight must be staged in the early hours to appease American audiences.
The Times reports Cardiff is now "increasingly likely" to stage the event, with a press conference tentatively organised for next week. Highly respected boxing journalist Dan Rafael also cites sources saying Netflix are expected to give the green light to the plan, with news expected in the next couple of days.
Wembley's Hopes Dashed
Saudi boxing supremo Turki Alalshikh and streaming giant Netflix are eager for the fight to be held on American soil. However, Joshua's promoter Eddie Hearn insists it should take place in Britain, pointing to a contractual clause that backs his position.
The eagerly awaited heavyweight clash has become mired in controversy over its proposed venue. Last week, Hearn threatened legal action against TKO Group Holdings — the parent company of Dana White's UFC and Zuffa Boxing — for allegedly attempting to entice Joshua to the United States.
Wembley's hopes of hosting the fight were effectively scuppered by Alalshikh's insistence on a 2am start time. The London venue's curfew can only be extended to 1am, which has thrust Cardiff to the front of the queue.
Cardiff's Boxing Legacy
The Principality Stadium already expressed a strong interest in hosting the event back in July. "We'd be delighted to host this fight," a spokesperson for the Welsh Rugby Union said. "We are very keen to attract more boxing to the stadium, which has a rich history in the sport, enhanced by its closable roof, unrivalled sight lines and unique city-centre location."
The celebrated Cardiff arena previously played host to Joshua's triumph over Carlos Takam in 2017, attracting a crowd of 78,000 fans. AJ returned to face Joseph Parker at the same venue the following year. Though predominantly recognised as a rugby ground, the Principality Stadium carries a proud and storied boxing tradition.
Most memorably, Welsh icon Joe Calzaghe took on Mikkel Kessler there in 2007 in a bout that also began at 2am. The Welsh capital also etched itself into sporting history when it staged the Lennox Lewis vs Frank Bruno contest at the former National Stadium in 1993.
