Eyes turn to Saudi Arabia for generational ‘Ring of Fire’ boxing event 
In a unique event that promises to reignite the flames of heavyweight boxing, Saudi Arabia is gearing up to host the historic undisputed championship clash between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk on May 18.
Aptly named “Ring of Fire,” this hotly anticipated showdown will take place at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, marking a triumphant return to the heyday of heavyweights.
The significance of this event cannot be overstated. Much like a solar movement happening once in a generation, boxing fans will witness an undisputed heavyweight title fight that will unify all four belts for the first time in 25 years, creating one boxing king to rule them all.
At the helm of this monumental event is the General Entertainment Authority, under the visionary leadership of Turki Alalshikh. Recognizing the global appeal and cultural significance of boxing, Alalshikh has cut through the red tape of the sport, pushing politics to one side to ensure that fight fans all over the world get the bouts that they want.
Those unable to make it to the Kingdom to witness this historic sporting event need not worry. One of the most remarkable aspects of “Ring of Fire” is its accessibility to fans the world over. Partnering with industry-leading broadcasters such as DAZN and TNT Sports, the event will be available at a fraction of the price of traditional pay-per-view offerings, ensuring that boxing fans from all walks of life can revel in the excitement and drama unfolding in Riyadh direct from their homes.
While the main event between Fury and Usyk undoubtedly steals the spotlight, the undercard boasts several premium fights that are sure to captivate audiences. In a clash for the vacant Cruiserweight IBF World Championship and the prestigious Ring Magazine Belt, Jai Opetaia will square off against Mairis Briedis, in a supporting act that arguably deserves its own top billing.
Much like a solar movement happening once in a generation, boxing fans will witness an undisputed heavyweight title fight that will unify all four belts for the first time in 25 years.
Setting “Ring of Fire” apart is its appeal to both boxing purists and mainstream fans alike. For the purists, the opportunity to witness the crowning of an undisputed heavyweight champion is a dream come true — a moment steeped in tradition and legacy. For the more mainstream audience, the allure of high-stakes competition, electrifying atmosphere in a sold-out arena, and quality undercard guarantees anybody an entertaining night out.
In both cases, food and fights go together perfectly. My top tip for the evening is to drop by the Food Trucks Park on the grounds of Kingdom Arena and take in the wide mix of meals as often as required.
Beyond the confines of the ring, the “Ring of Fire” event offers spectators a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Saudi Arabia. The influx of international tourists traveling to the Kingdom can make a varied vacation of their visit by checking out a range of cultural amenities, from Jeddah’s Old Town district to the ancient city of AlUla. Those based in Riyadh can stroll through Boulevard City or enjoy any number of the city’s fine restaurants and amenities.
As the countdown to May 18 begins, anticipation continues to mount as the world eagerly awaits the clash of titans in the “Ring of Fire.” The world’s eyes turn to Saudi Arabia for a sporting event ready to transcend boundaries, unite cultures, and inspire generations to come.
It is a rare night that causes people to stop and remember where they were and what they were doing when a defining sporting moment happened. Now is the time to ask yourself where you will be when the first undisputed heavyweight champion of the world is crowned in this century. I’ll be in Riyadh.
• Cormac O’Donnell is an Irish educator living in the UAE since 2018. A longtime combat sports enthusiast, he is keen to bring Western eyes to developments in the Gulf region.
