Rival boxing promoters Frank Warren and Eddie Hearn have agreed to a deal to have their fighters lock horns with each other on one historic card.
The idea for a 5×5 bill between the two rival promoters was mooted by General Entertainment Authority Chairman Turki Alalshikh earlier this week. And within days it is signed, sealed and delivered.
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The date and fighters set to appear on the card will be confirmed at a press conference during fight week for that Anthony Joshua vs Francis Ngannou blockbuster in Riyadh on Friday March 8.
Hearn vs Warren reaction
Announcing the news, H.E. Turki Alalshikh said: “This type of agreement is what boxing fans have been waiting for, as the best champions worldwide are going to be a part of the five-versus-five fight night. Riyadh Calendar is looking forward to hosting more exciting events. These unique partnerships promise boxing fans from around the globe more unforgettable sports events”
Warren said: “We’ve always liked a challenge, and this is a mouthwatering one. I honestly think this is one of the most intriguing events you could think of in boxing. A proper event to find out whose stable is stronger. I’d like to thank His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, who is really changing the game, like we said right at the start. He’s injected a new energy into the sport. This Queensberry vs Matchroom fight night encapsulates all of the elements you want in an event as a promoter: Rivalry, characters, history and competition. It’s time to settle the score, who’s getting the bragging rights?”
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Hearn meanwhile admitted: “For decades it has been the Hearns versus the Warrens. Matchroom versus Queensberry. It is without doubt the most storied rivalry in the sport. Now, thanks to the unrivalled vision of His Excellency, Turki Alalshikh, fight fans witnessed a handshake that broke the internet – and now they will see the world’s leading promoters going hammer and tong to settle a score for the ages. It’s the best against the best and this unprecedented night of boxing in Riyadh will live long in the memory.”
