Cardiff has emerged as a leading option to host the much-anticipated heavyweight bout between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua, with Fury publicly supporting the Welsh capital as the location for the fight.
The proposed contest could be held at the Principality Stadium on Friday, December 11, although negotiations involving the fighters and Netflix have yet to be completed.
Fury recently posted a picture of himself at the Cardiff stadium on Instagram, alongside a Welsh dragon, and expressed enthusiasm about fighting in Wales.
He said the event would feel like a homecoming because his mother’s family is from Wales.
Joshua’s contractual requirements are reportedly another factor working in Cardiff’s favour. The agreement requires the fight to be staged in the United Kingdom, making New York and Middle Eastern venues unsuitable.
Wembley Stadium has also reportedly become a less attractive option because the venue does not have a roof.
The Principality Stadium already has a connection with Joshua. He fought there in 2017, defeating Carlos Takam in front of around 78,000 fans.
A confirmed Fury-Joshua fight could bring another large sporting crowd to Cardiff and generate significant demand for accommodation and other services.
However, organisers may need to address several logistical issues before the venue can be confirmed.
Reports indicate that some of Cardiff’s major hotels are already fully booked for the proposed fight date, including the Hilton, Parkgate and Marriott.
The stadium’s 1am curfew is another potential obstacle. Netflix reportedly wants a schedule that will attract viewers in the United States, which could require the event to run later than the existing restriction permits.
Cardiff Council has said no application has been received to extend the curfew. It has also indicated that any request would require 28 days to process.
With negotiations continuing, Cardiff remains a strong possibility for the fight, while Fury’s comments show that he would welcome the opportunity to stage the bout in Wales.