Matchroom vs Queensberry ‘5v5’ Boxing Showdown Makes History in Saudi Arabia

One of the most anticipated boxing events in recent memory took place in Saudi Arabia when two prominent promoters, Queensberry Promotions and Matchroom Boxing, brought forth five fighters each for a historic showdown.

Queensberry Promotions is led by Frank Warren and represents fighters such as Joseph Parker, while Matchroom Boxing, headed by Eddie Hearn, promotes athletes like Anthony Joshua and Katie Taylor.

Hearn and Warren, despite their past differences, teamed up for this unique event to settle their rivalry in the ring with a ‘5v5’ event that promises high-level competition.

The card featured a heavyweight clash between Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang, with Dmitry Bivol defending his WBA light heavyweight title against Malik Zinad in the undercard.

The ‘5v5’ format saw Queensberry taking an early lead as Hamzah Sheeraz secured a victory over Austin Williams and claimed the WBA featherweight title.

It was a closely contested affair between Nick Ball and Ray Ford, with Ball emerging victorious by a split decision in a thrilling matchup.

Willy Hutchinson dominated Craig Richards in a unanimous decision victory, further extending Queensberry’s lead over Matchroom.

The main event between Wilder and Zhang created much excitement, with both fighters known for their knockout power and aggressive styles.

Wilder, coming off a loss to Joseph Parker, faced Zhang, who had also suffered a defeat against Parker in his last bout.

Despite their potent punching abilities, it was anticipated that Zhang’s relentless pressure would outlast Wilder’s power, leading to a decision victory.

In addition to the Wilder vs. Zhang bout, the undercard featured matchups such as Filip Hrgovic vs. Daniel Dubois and Dmitry Bivol vs. Malik Zinad.

The event took place at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, the same venue where past boxing spectacles such as Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk had unfolded.

Deontay Wilder, known for his remarkable knockout record, faced Zhilei Zhang, a formidable opponent with a strong amateur background and impressive wins in the pro ranks.

Wilder, standing at 6-foot-7, weighed in at 214.6 pounds, while Zhang, at 6-foot-6, tipped the scale at 282.8 pounds.

With odds favoring Zhang for a potential decision victory, the matchup was expected to deliver a thrilling clash between two heavyweight contenders.