Turki Alalshikh has issued a huge update on Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury’s proposed heavyweight showdown, with the Saudi boxing chief offering his thoughts live on Netflix ahead of the Gypsy King’s return.
It was very much a who’s who of British boxing on Saturday night, with Joshua, Derek Chisora, Eddie Hearn and even The Rolling Stones star Ronnie Wood at ringside ahead of Fury’s bout against Arslanbek Makhmudov.
But arguably the most important man in the stadium was the chairman of the Saudi General Entertainment Authority, Alalshikh.
Following Richard Riakporhe’s victory over Jeamie ‘TKV’ Tshikeva, presenter Josh Denzel caught up with the Saudi boxing chief, who had a huge announcement to make to fans inside the stadium, as well as those watching on Netflix.
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The Saudi Arabian teased that a “surprise” may be in the offing later in the evening.
“Today we have a big surprise. I hope we announce the biggest fight in the history of England,” he said, seemingly referring to a bout between AJ and Fury.
Alalshikh then went on to joke that someone needs to “kidnap” Matchroom Boxing chief Hearn, which may be a clue as to why the all-British showdown between AJ and Fury has not been officially announced.
He also suggested the fight could take place at Wembley Stadium, despite reports that the bout may instead be held at Croke Park in Dublin.
Speaking to BBC Sport earlier this week, Croke Park chief executive Peter McKenna said: “The real hope is that we will get Tyson Fury here later in the year. That would be such a world-billing event that we would be able to facilitate a Katie Taylor fight here.
“A lot of stars need to align. Katie’s manager needs to agree, Katie’s promoter needs to agree, Tyson Fury’s promoter needs to agree.
“I am very confident that all three are coming to the sense that this is one of Ireland’s greatest sporting athletes, and it would be such a ‘wow’ to have her here and for her to finish her career here.”
Joshua and Fury have been linked with a fight for several years, with both previously holding various world title belts. However, they have yet to share a ring – although fans may not have to wait much longer.
AJ hasn’t fought since defeating Jake Paul by knockout in December 2025.
Topics: Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury, Boxing, Heavyweight Boxing, Eddie Hearn, Wembley Stadium
Luke Davies