One of, if not the, biggest boxing fights of this calendar year has to be Anthony Joshua vs Oleksandr Usyk 2 - but why is the fight taking place in Saudi Arabia?
Labelled the 'Rage on the Red Sea', Joshua against Usyk is one of the most eagerly anticipated rematches in recent times, after a stellar performance from the Ukrainian in the first match at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London saw him walk away with the WBA, IBO and WBO belts.
Usyk was nothing short of an animal in this first bout. He was light on his feet, agile, and essentially just outclassed Joshua in his backyard. A masterclass of a performance from a terrific boxer.
The first fight went the full distance, so it will be interesting to see how Joshua tweaks his game plan in the rematch to try and obtain the victory, but it begs the question - is Usyk simply just a class above? Nevertheless, it's going to be a terrific encounter between two great fighters that will be watched by millions around the globe.
But with the fight just being announced to be taking place on Saturday 20th August 2022, the destination for the fight has also been announced - which is Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Why is this the case? Read on below to find out.
Why is the fight in Saudi Arabia?
LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 25: Oleksandr Usyk of Ukraine fights Anthony Joshua of Great Britain during the Heavyweight Title Fight between Anthony Joshua and Oleksandr Usyk at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on September 25, 2021 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
There will be many reasons why the fight is held in Saudi Arabia. But the biggest factor in the neutral venue is the fact that the fight could simply not go ahead in Ukraine because of the ongoing conflict between them and Russia.
Due to the fact Joshua was able to box in his backyard in the first leg, Usyk would have had to option to choose to fight in his homeland if the circumstances differentiated - but the decision of Saudi Arabia was ultimately made.
This has sparked a bit of controversy already with fans, due to all the human rights issues that are associated with the country of Saudi Arabia, however, both boxers haven't made statements about this issue as of yet.
Via Daily Star, Usyk did come out and state that in an ideal world Kyiv would have been a perfect host but was then remarkably asked as to why this couldn't happen, leaving the Ukrainian fighter absolutely baffled as if it wasn't obvious enough.
Either way this fight will be a bout for the ages. We can't wait for August now.
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