What’s on the line in Fury v. Usyk ‘Ring of Fire’ heavyweight boxing clash?

One of the most hotly anticipated boxing matches of the century takes place in Riyadh on Saturday, as heavyweight champions Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk battle it out in the “Ring of Fire” clash at the Kingdom Arena. (Supplied)
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Updated 14 May 2024
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What’s on the line in Fury v. Usyk ‘Ring of Fire’ heavyweight boxing clash?

  • Fury-Usyk one of the most hotly anticipated boxing matches of the century

RIYADH: One of the most hotly anticipated boxing matches of the century takes place in Riyadh on Saturday, as heavyweight champions Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk battle it out in the “Ring of Fire” clash at the Kingdom Arena.

But what exactly is at stake?

Ukrainian Usyk holds the World Boxing Association, International Boxing Federation and World Boxing Organization belts, while Briton Fury is World Boxing Council champion. The victor on Saturday will hold all four major championship belts and become the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.

The winner will also maintain an undefeated record, further solidifying their legendary status in the sport.

There has not been an undisputed boxing heavyweight champion for a quarter of a century, not since British-Canadian Lennox Lewis beat Evander Holyfield in 1999.

For Usyk or Fury, the added incentive on Saturday is the chance to become an undisputed champion in the era of the four major belts for the first time, as the WBO belt has been added since Lewis’s triumph.

Turki Alalshikh, chairman of fight organizers the General Entertainment Authority, said in September this was the “fight that everyone has wanted to see for some time,” adding: “It is the biggest fight in boxing, the world will be watching, and we are so proud to be the hosts for this spectacle.”


LIV Golf Hong Kong dates announced as event leadership reaffirms commitment to the region

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LIV Golf Hong Kong dates announced as event leadership reaffirms commitment to the region

  • Fourth edition to take place Feb. 18-21, 2027, at Hong Kong Golf Club in Fanling
  • Scott O’Neil: Hong Kong is a cornerstone of our international calendar and an important gateway for golf’s continued growth in Asia

HONG KONG: LIV Golf today announced the dates for HSBC LIV Golf Hong Kong 2027, which will return for its fourth edition from Feb. 18-21, continuing its long-term commitment to the region and reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as one of Asia’s premier destinations for global sport and entertainment.

The announcement was made during a press conference at Hong Kong Golf Club in Fanling by Scott O’Neil, LIV Golf CEO; Andrea de Vincentiis, HSBC managing director and global head of brand partnerships; and Andy Kwok, Hong Kong Golf Club captain.

The 2027 dates align the tournament within Hong Kong’s vibrant calendar of major international events and reinforce a sustained multi-year partnership between LIV Golf, HSBC, the Hong Kong SAR Government and Hong Kong Golf Club.

HSBC LIV Golf Hong Kong will continue to be an “M” Mark event in 2027, helping promote Hong Kong as a center for international sports events. The “M” Mark status, awarded by the Major Sports Events Committee, symbolizes signature events in the territory’s sports calendar.

Ticket holders for this week’s event, which takes place Thursday, March 5, through Sunday, March 8, will have exclusive early access to specially priced 2027 tickets beginning this Sunday at LIVGolf.com. Organizers thanked the Hong Kong Tourism Board for the continued event support, including planning and promotion.

O’Neil said: “Hong Kong is a cornerstone of our international calendar and an important gateway for golf’s continued growth in Asia. As the world’s golf league, LIV Golf is committed to investing in dynamic markets like Hong Kong, where sport, entertainment and culture are celebrated and recognized on a global scale.

“Announcing our 2027 event a year in advance is a testament to the local support and momentum building in Hong Kong. I want to thank our partners at HSBC, the HKSAR Government, and Hong Kong Golf Club, who all share in our vision to grow the game and continue delivering a world-class event that connects with fans of all ages and brings significant economic impact to the region.”

De Vincentiis said: “HSBC has supported golf globally for more than 20 years, and our partnership with LIV Golf represents a natural evolution of that legacy. It reflects both our international network and our long-standing commitment to Hong Kong.

“HSBC LIV Golf Hong Kong showcases the city to a global audience while contributing to the growth of the game across Asia. We are proud to continue our support to an event that aligns with our ambitions internationally and within this great community.”

Kwok said: “Established in 1889, Hong Kong Golf Club has a proud history of hosting world-class tournaments. We understand the responsibility that comes with staging global competition at this level.

“LIV Golf has brought new energy and new audiences to Fanling, while respecting the traditions of the game. We are proud to continue welcoming the league and its players to one of Asia’s most historic venues.”

Since its debut in Hong Kong in 2024, the tournament has produced memorable moments and showcased elite competition at one of Asia’s most respected championship venues.

Across its 14-event global schedule, LIV Golf events have generated more than $1 billion in economic impact for host cities worldwide, supporting tourism, hospitality and local communities while delivering international broadcast reach of over 900 million.

The 2026 edition takes place this week at Hong Kong Golf Club, featuring a 57-player international field competing across four days.