As the fourth edition of Riyadh Season gets underway, the eyes of the world will turn to the capital, Riyadh, which hosts a thrilling boxing bout on October 28 between world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury and former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, a clash considered one of the richest in history.

The much-anticipated fight will take place in a regulation boxing ring under standard boxing rules in Riyadh, after an agreement was reached between Queensberry, Top Rank, Ngannou's promotion company and GIMIK Fight to partner with Riyadh Season on the historic event awaited by boxing fans around the world.

Speaking on the occasion, Turki Al-Sheikh, Chairman of the Board of the General Entertainment Authority and head of Riyadh Season, said:

"Riyadh Season 2023, in its fourth edition, will see an exciting boxing match after its opening between two champions, Tyson Fury against Francis Ngannou. This clash will set a new standard for such an event, keeping the season's standing as one of the most anticipated entertainment seasons worldwide."

Tyson Fury laid down his challenge to his opponent, saying: "I will not stop throwing punches. I am excited to be in the spotlight again, and it will be the fight of history."

Francis Ngannou said: "I have been waiting to meet Tyson in the ring for the past three years. My dream has always been to box, and to box the best. Having deservedly become the MMA heavyweight champion, this is my chance to achieve that dream. I thank Riyadh Season and my team at 3Point0 Labs for helping to organize this event."

Fury vs. Ngannou world boxing showdown
Fury vs. Ngannou world boxing showdown

Queensberry president Frank Warren said this one-of-a-kind event will make history in Riyadh with a battle of giants between two leading combat sports icons: "Tyson is the true king of the ring, and Francis Ngannou will present an intriguing challenge because he has the hardest punch in the world."

Bob Arum noted that Tyson Fury is one of the best heavyweight boxers in history and now has the chance to face a mixed martial arts legend, which will be a historic event. "Fury will be in a great fight, and the people of Riyadh and fans around the world will get a real treat," he said.

Riyadh hosts one of the world's largest entertainment events every winter. Since Riyadh Season launched in 2019, it has welcomed visitors from around the world to experience thousands of concerts, sporting events, dining experiences and other unique cultural events. Riyadh Season 2023 will begin on Saturday, October 28, with a spectacular opening ceremony and the historic bout between Tyson Fury and Francis Ngannou.