Turki Alalshikh Explains Fury vs Joshua Venue Choice, Mentions Dua Lipa's Refusal

Turki Alalshikh Discusses Fury vs Joshua Fight Location and Dua Lipa's Role

Turki Alalshikh, a key figure in the boxing world, revealed why the highly anticipated Tyson Fury versus Anthony Joshua fight will take place at Cardiff's Principality Stadium instead of London. In his explanation, he unexpectedly mentioned that pop star Dua Lipa declined to perform at the event.

Why Cardiff Over London?

Alalshikh shared that London was unable to provide the stadium until 2am, which was a crucial factor for scheduling the fight. He added that Dua Lipa refused to perform because she reportedly dislikes boxing and possibly him personally.

“I will be honest today, I know that London wouldn't give me the stadium until 2am, and I know that Dua Lipa will not perform in the stadium, because she doesn't like boxing, and maybe she doesn't like me,” said Alalshikh.

No official response has come from Dua Lipa or her representatives regarding this claim.

Financial Impact and Venue Decision

Besides scheduling issues, Alalshikh pointed out the financial risks involved in holding the fight in the UK. He estimated potential losses around $70 million (£52.8m), suggesting that choosing Wales offered a better time zone and conditions.

“Nobody questioned me about UK. I love the British people, I try to deliver everything for them. Put yourself in my shoes; there's a situation to lose $70million (£52.8m); the best is to have it in a good time zone,” he explained.

He praised Wales for delivering on the requirements, saying, “I have two reasons, and I know London won't deliver it; they won't give me the stadium until 2am... Wales delivered it; it's still the UK, the town of Ryan Giggs, let's do it.”

Support from Anthony Joshua’s Team

Eddie Hearn, Anthony Joshua’s promoter, expressed excitement about the fight happening in Britain and thanked the local boxing community for their support.

“I'm excited. Turki, I know we've fallen out, but I promise you this'll be the greatest night you've ever had in boxing,” Hearn stated.

“On a serious note, when we talked about this fight, you envisaged it for British boxing. This guy (Joshua) has changed boxing in this country. So has Tyson Fury. We are the envy of the boxing world.”

Hearn also recognized the pressure from British fans as vital to securing the fight on home soil.

The Fight and Unexpected Drama

With Cardiff confirmed as the venue, attention now turns fully to the fight itself—the biggest in both fighters’ careers. Meanwhile, Dua Lipa has become an unexpected figure in the background drama surrounding the event.