Eddie Hearn unveils plan to change face of boxing in UK amid Saudi revolution
- Eddie Hearn is rethinking the structure of his UK boxing events due to the impact of the Saudi Arabia-inspired 'Riyadh Season'.
- The promoter has faced challenges in scheduling shows, with only one event held this summer, as major fighters are drawn to lucrative opportunities in Saudi Arabia.
- Hearn emphasizes the need to develop new boxing stars, especially as established names like Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury approach the end of their careers.
Eddie Hearn, the head of Matchroom Boxing, is currently facing a challenging landscape in the UK boxing scene due to the rising prominence of Saudi Arabia's 'Riyadh Season'. This initiative has attracted many top fighters, making it difficult for Hearn to organize competitive events in Britain. As a result, he has only managed to put on one show this summer, which featured heavyweight Johnny Fisher in a low-profile match at the Copper Box Arena in London. The allure of substantial paydays in Saudi Arabia has led many fighters and their managers to prioritize these opportunities over traditional UK events. Hearn noted that the presence of major stars like Anthony Joshua at large events, such as the upcoming September 21 card at Wembley Stadium, complicates the scheduling of other fights. This situation has left Hearn struggling to fill his fight cards with headline acts. Hearn acknowledges the need for a strategic overhaul to keep the sport vibrant in the UK. He believes that the current focus on established fighters like Joshua and Tyson Fury, who are nearing the end of their careers, highlights the urgent need to cultivate new talent in boxing. Hearn's comments reflect a broader concern about the future of the sport in Britain amid the changing dynamics influenced by international events. Ultimately, Hearn's plans to revamp his UK boxing events aim to adapt to these new challenges while ensuring the continued growth and popularity of the sport in the region.