THE venue is set, the fighters are weighed-in.
Anthony Joshua’s rematch with Andy Ruiz Jr is almost upon us, with the two heavyweights going toe-to-toe for the three belts AJ lost to the Mexican in New York on June 1.
The stage is set in the desert for a real dust-upCredit: PA:Press Association
There has been controversy that the bout is being held in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia, where 16,000 fight fans will pack into a newly-built arena.
Joshua vs Ruiz weather forecast
THE new-look stadium looks set to be a fitting venue for Saudi Arabia’s biggest ever boxing match.
Named the Diriyah Arena, it is custom-built to accommodate 15,000 and features open-air terraces which surround the ring.
As such, the weather might play it’s part when the fighters enter the ring on Saturday night.
Work began on the arena just SIX weeks ago and it was constructed so quickly thanks to 175 dedicated staff and workmen.
It is situated just outside the town of Ad Diriyah, near to an entertainment complex known as the Diriyah Oasis – and is in the north-western outskirts of the Saudi capital Riyadh.
There’s a small chance of a shower on Saturday night, but that should have cleared away by the ring-walksCredit: PA:Press Association
The climate in the area is hot and humid throughout the year, with the average high in the summer months a toasty 42.4 degrees celsius.
Once you get into November and December though, those temperatures cool off and the fight won’t be fought in a sweat box.
Instead it is set to be 27c during the day, going down to a mild 17c when the two fighters ring-walk around midnight Saudi time (9pm GMT).
There is the chance of a light shower earlier in the evening – forecast around 8pm Saudi time – so those early on the undercard might need to take a brolly with their entourage.
But with a cover over the ring, there’s no danger of the weather ruining what is set to be a huge night of sporting entertainment.
How can I watch fight night?
- The huge heavyweight title fight and undercard is live on Sky Sports Box Office.
- Sky Sports Box Office will begin their broadcast from 5pm GMT.
- The card will be available for a record price of £24.95, with the full undercard and main event shown.
- You can also live stream for the same price on your computer, mobile and tablet devices.
- Sky Sports Box Office is also now available on BT TV.
Source: Boxing - thesun.co.uk
