Tyson Fury welcomes Francis Ngannou to the world of boxing this weekend on a stage as big as any.
The pair will enter a ten-round crossover contest in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on October 28, topping a bill of all-heavyweight action and earning mega-money whilst doing so.
Fury’s decision to entertain the former UFC Champion rather than defend his world title against an established heavyweight drew criticism that was recently curbed by an announcement to say he has signed to face unified champion, Oleksandr Usyk, in an undisputed bout next.
First up, Ngannou stands in the way – and the promotion is doing everything in its power to make it an unforgettable spectacle.
UK fans will benefit from the timezone being close to their own, and Fury recently confirmed via broadcaster TNT Sports that he would be walking to the ring around 1AM local time, meaning 11PM back home.
That means those looking forward to Fabio Wardley’s British Heavyweight Title defence against fellow-unbeaten contender, David Adeleye, can expect it to come just after ten and before some guaranteed pre-main event theatrics.
There will be a who’s who of boxing at ringside, not limited to fighting legend Mike Tyson, but the man most will be looking out for is Usyk.
The Ukrainian has confirmed he will be in attendance, and is expected to enter the ring to solidify his four belt clash with Fury should the Brit come through Ngannou as expected.
UK viewers can tune in via TNT Sports Box Office, whilst those in the US will be watching the pay-per-view on ESPN. DAZN picked up the rights to the event for some other territories around the world.