Saudi Anthem Played at Wembley for Joshua vs Dubois Fight

Eddie Hearn defended the decision to play the Saudi national anthem at Wembley before the heavyweight fight between Daniel Dubois and Anthony Joshua, which took place on a Saturday. He emphasized that the anthem was a gesture of respect for the financial contributions made by Turki, who funded the event. Hearn argued that the investment has provided significant opportunities for British boxing, allowing fans and fighters to enjoy a high-quality event in the UK rather than in Riyadh. Hearn expressed his willingness to play the Saudi anthem at future events, stating that it reflects the hard work and dedication behind organizing such shows. He dismissed any notion of an agenda behind Saudi Arabia's involvement in boxing, suggesting that their goal is to create exceptional events and enhance their global brand visibility. The event faced some controversy, particularly regarding media accreditation. A reporter from the Daily Telegraph had his pass revoked after criticizing Saudi involvement in boxing, which raised questions about press freedom and transparency. Hearn acknowledged the challenges of managing accreditation for a high-profile event, noting that there were over 350 applications for media access. Despite the criticism, Hearn maintained that the Saudi organizers were committed to ensuring a flawless event. He highlighted their operational excellence and their desire to address any issues that arise, indicating a focus on creating a positive experience for all involved in the fight.