Eddie Hearn is looking to deliver on his partnership with the Middle East in a big way.
A longterm deal between Hearn’s Matchroom and Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism was announced last year, with the promoter promising to deliver big boxing to the region.
The first fight that landed there was Dmitry Bivol’s light heavyweight title defence against Gilberto Ramirez – a card which featured two other world championship bouts.
Hearn was asked by International Boxing News about the next planned event on June 3 in the UAE, although his answer mentioned Saudi Arabia.
Wilder vs Ruiz
With news of Deontay Wilder’s free agency amidst his order to face fellow former-champion, Andy Ruiz Jr, the promoter has revealed that he will attempt to make that fight his headliner on the proposed date.
“I would like to make Deontay Wilder against Andy Ruiz on June the 3rd in Saudi Arabia.”
Benn vs Pacquiao
On Conor Benn also appearing on that date, Hearn said:
“Possibly – it was a date we’ve discussed for the Manny Pacquiao fight.”
There are more than a few obstacles facing Hearn’s plans. Whilst fans would love both fights on the same card, it’s highly unlikely given the hype that would surround them separately.
Wilder has confirmed he was open to discussing the Ruiz fight with any and all promoters, but his history with Hearn has been rocky, and it’s unclear if PBC – who represent both fighters – could block the fight going ahead in some capacity.
Then there’s Conor Benn, who is still embroiled in a doping drama and awaiting the outcome of two investigations.
There has been talk of the Pacquiao fight and reported initial conversations, but whether or not the Filipino great is actually willing to put his retirement on pause to take it is another story.