Fight organizer and Saudi advisor Turki Alalshikh and the great country of Saudi Arabia have made Usyk vs Fury 2 happen.
Not only that, they have brought the West and East closer together in professional sport than ever before, with the East being the new West now — and produced a quality standard of the highest level in all aspects never seen before in boxing up until now — all things remaining equal when weighing everything up and balancing the scales.
On the big fight this weekend Turki Alalshikh is all hands on deck for it by all accounts.
Speaking to the Stomping Ground Podcast Alalshikh enthused:
“Interviewer: Your Excellency, it’s a pleasure to have you on camera. Congratulations, first of all, on the acquisition of The Ring magazine. Reviving what is essentially the birthplace and pinnacle of boxing must be a truly proud moment for you.
His Excellency: Yes, it is. It has been one of my dreams since I was a child. I used to buy The Ring magazine often, and I loved it. Thanks to God, I was able to finalize the deal with Oscar.
Interviewer: I won’t take up too much of your time, but everyone in the boxing world is here tonight, and that’s thanks to you. From Klitschko to so many other legends, it’s incredible. What would you say is the most special thing you’ve accomplished so far?
His Excellency: I would say, my country. None of this would have been possible without the support of the Crown Prince and my nation. Thanks to God, the last 14 months have been incredible for boxing. We hope to continue achieving even more in the future.
Interviewer: I must ask about the February 22nd card, which many are calling the best lineup they’ve ever seen. You’ve brought back Beterbiev vs. Bivol, which you said you wanted again. On top of that, Daniel Dubois vs. Joseph Parker, Hamzah Sheeraz getting his world title shot, and Zhilei Zhang vs. Agit Kabayel opening the card—it’s packed. How did you pull off what is being called the greatest card of all time?
His Excellency: Yes, it is the best card we’ve put together so far. Today, we also finalized discussions for a special event in May, where we’ll have a 5 vs. 5 format. It’s going to be amazing.
Interviewer: Lastly, Saturday night’s rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury—it’s one of the most anticipated fights. Their first matchup was one of the best we’ve ever seen. What are your thoughts going into Saturday? I know you’re hoping for a trilogy.
His Excellency: I think Usyk will win, but I hope Tyson does. We’d all love to see a trilogy.
Interviewer: One final message to the fans. What you’ve achieved for boxing here in Saudi Arabia has been remarkable.
His Excellency: Thank you. Enjoy it, and regarding The Ring magazine, I want to clarify—it isn’t part of the Riyadh Season. I purchased it personally. We also have a big surprise planned for England in 2025.
Interviewer: Congratulations, and thank you for your time as always.”
So his head says Usyk but his heart wants Fury to win.
Indeed, this fight is a pick um that has split the boxing world straight down the middle.
Always the sign of a great fight in store, more often than not.
Fans are the winner, as is boxing, this weekend.
