Everything you need to know ahead of the Day of Reckoning

On December 23, 2023, the boxing world’s attention will be firmly fixed on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as the “Day of Reckoning” unfolds in Riyadh.

This highly anticipated event promises a night of electrifying matchups, featuring some of the most illustrious names and top contenders in the heavyweight division.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know ahead of this blockbuster fight night.

The venue: King Fahd International Stadium

The colossal King Fahd International Stadium, situated against the stunning Riyadh skyline, will be the battleground for the Day of Reckoning.

With a seating capacity that can accommodate 92,000 fans, this iconic venue has hosted major sporting events and now takes center stage for a night of explosive boxing action.

Main event: Deontay Wilder vs Joseph Parker

The heavyweight clash between Deontay Wilder and Joseph Parker serves as the main event, promising an explosive showdown between two dynamic fighters.

The ‘Bronze Bomber’ aims to continue his redemption journey following back-to-back defeats to Tyson Fury in 2020 and 2021, while the New Zealander is seeking a fourth consecutive victory and to ascend further up the heavyweight rankings.

The Wilder vs Parker odds are firmly in the Bronze Bomber’s favour, and a victory could set up a thrilling bout with Anthony Joshua in 2024.

Co-main event: Anthony Joshua vs Otto Wallin

That leads us nicely to our next point, as Joshua is also on a redemption mission following successive losses to Oleksandr Usyk — and ‘AJ’ will look to make it three wins on the spin in 2023 when he trades blows with Otto Wallin in the co-main.

Wallin is on a run of six wins in a row after his sole career defeat to Fury in 2019, and the Swede’s momentum collides with Joshua’s determination to prove he is still a dominant force in the division.

The outcome of this battle could reshape the landscape of the heavyweight hierarchy, but it will come as no surprise that Joshua is the heavy favourite if you’re looking for a boxing bet.

Epic undercard

This enthralling fight night is not just about the two main events, as the build-up to Wilder vs Parker and Joshua vs Wallin is going to feature some epic battles between some of the biggest names in the sport.

In fact, there are two world fights in the preliminary stages.

Dmitrii Bivol, who has the best record and is the highest-ranked boxer on the card, will put his WBA world light heavyweight title on the line against Lyndon Arthur, while Jai Opetaia will defend his IBF world cruiserweight belt against Ellis Zorro.

British heavyweight Daniel Dubois is hoping to bounce back from a defeat to Usyk that was marred by controversy in August, as he takes on the undefeated Jarrell Miller in a bout that could springboard the winner into contention in 2024.

The No.1 challenger for Usyk’s IBF belt, Filip Hrgovic, needs a win against Mark De Mori to keep his place as the top contender, while Arslanbek Makhmudov vs Agit Kabayel and Frank Sanchez vs Junior Fa are also set to feature.

Global appeal and cultural exchange

Saudi Arabia’s commitment to hosting major sporting events has turned the nation into a global hub for boxing.

The ‘Day of Reckoning’ brings together fans from around the world, creating a unique atmosphere of cultural exchange and unity.

The event serves as a testament to the universal appeal of boxing, transcending boundaries and fostering a shared passion among diverse audiences.

—

As the anticipation builds and the world awaits the Day of Reckoning, fans can expect a night filled with heart-pounding action, unexpected twists, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.

Riyadh becomes the epicenter of the boxing universe, and on December 23, the echoes of every punch thrown will reverberate through the desert night, leaving an enduring impact on the sport and its global community.