Warren and Hearn Stand Firm on Saudi Arabia's Role in Boxing.

Promoters Frank Warren and Eddie Hearn have backed Saudi Arabia's role in boxing, responding to criticism following Daniel Dubois' fight against Anthony Joshua at Wembley Stadium last Saturday.

The match was arranged by Riyadh Season and Turki Alalshikh, the head of Saudi Arabia's general entertainment authority. 

Saudi Arabia has been criticized for human rights violations and accused of using sports like boxing to enhance its image both domestically and internationally.

Before the fight, the Saudi national anthem was played in the ring. 

At a press conference for the upcoming Riyadh Season event featuring Artur Beterbiev against Dmitry Bivol on October 12, Warren stated that Saudi support was crucial in making the Dubois-Joshua fight possible.

“Why the criticism?” Warren questioned, referring to a small group upset about the national anthem being played. “These events wouldn’t happen without financial backing. His Excellency [Alalshikh] made this possible out of love for boxing. Did you hear any complaints from the fans there?”

Riyadh Season has teamed up with Warren's Queensberry Promotions and Hearn's Matchroom Boxing to bring major events to Saudi Arabia, with the Wembley fight being the first of its kind in the UK. 

Warren, who promotes Dubois, echoed Hearn's sentiments, who promotes Joshua, stating the bout was a much-needed boost for British boxing.

“That boost came unexpectedly through Riyadh Season,” Hearn noted. “This event marks a year since big-time boxing started in Riyadh. I can’t grasp the negativity from some people. Riyadh Season is about celebrating sport in Riyadh, and what we witnessed last week was His Excellency's passion for it. He listened to fight fans and went above and beyond to provide an experience they were eager for.”