This archive report was first published on 12 August 2019.
On August 12, 2019, the world of boxing was abuzz with the announcement that Anthony Joshua's world heavyweight title rematch against Andy Ruiz Jr would take place in Saudi Arabia on December 7.
The decision, made by Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn, has been met with criticism from human rights groups, including Amnesty International, who have raised concerns about the country's poor human rights record, the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, and the ongoing war in Yemen.
However, Hearn defended the decision, citing the success of other high-profile sports events held in Saudi Arabia, such as Formula One and the European golf tour.
"We have to realise there is a world outside of Cardiff and Madison Square Garden," Hearn said at a London press conference on Monday. "This event could change boxing forever. You could be seeing a big change in the dynamics of the sport."
The neutral venue was chosen at the request of Ruiz Jr, who did not want to fight in Britain.
The bout will take place in Diriyah, a town on the outskirts of the capital Riyadh, at around 11pm EAT.
"When we realised Saudi Arabia was serious about boxing we looked into the logistical side and that blew our mind as well," Hearn said.
"This will go down as one of the great fights, alongside the Rumble in the Jungle, the Thrilla in Manila."
