Eddie Hearn Aims for More Thrilling Matches in the UK in 2024
Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn concluded the year on a high note with a mega-card in Saudi Arabia. Nevertheless, he is determined to bring more significant fights to the United Kingdom in 2024.
In 2023, Saudi Arabia emerged as a prominent destination for staging major market fights. Thanks to substantial financial contributions that compelled top promotional companies to collaborate.
Unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk, in 2023, signed with the Saudi Arabia-based company Skill Challenge Promotions. Additionally, he and WBC champion Tyson Fury are set to vie for undisputed glory in that location this year.
HOSTING MAJOR FIGHTS AT HOME
During an interview with iFL TV, Hearn stressed the significance of staging fights closer to home after being asked if all major bouts would be held in Saudi Arabia.
“Definitely not . . . we have to ensure major fights happen in England, Ireland, or wherever closer to home . . . the opportunities to stage major fights in Saudi are there, and the cards that we’re working on at the moment are incredible.”
“But, we do understand that this is our main market. Well, UK is our main market, and we have to make sure that we keep the profile of the sport raised in our country. We do that by great fight nights, but also great mega-fight nights as well, and that’s important.”
Hearn has particularly benefited financially from organizing fights in Saudi Arabia, with his prized jewel, Anthony Joshua, competing in that location in 2019, 2022, and 2023.
Yet, he is correct in emphasizing that forgetting about home isn’t a smart move. Hence, his plans to stage the Chris Eubank Jr. vs Conor Benn and Katie Taylor vs Chantelle Cameron trilogy in their backyard.
