Dua Lipa declines performance offer for Joshua-Fury heavyweight bout
Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority chairman had suggested the fight could be jeopardised without her involvement, though the seriousness of the remark remains unclear
Pop star Dua Lipa has declined an offer to perform at the upcoming heavyweight contest between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury. The decision marks the end of discussions regarding the singer's potential involvement in the event's promotion, with reports indicating she was approached but chose not to accept the invitation.
The all-British bout is currently targeted for late 2026, although a specific venue has not yet been officially finalised. Organisers are understood to prefer Wembley Stadium, though the location remains pending confirmation. The contest brings together 36-year-old Anthony Joshua and 37-year-old Tyson Fury, two of the sport's most prominent figures who have been linked for over a decade.
Prior to this announcement, Turki Al-Sheikh, chairman of Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority, suggested that the fight could be jeopardised if Dua Lipa did not agree to perform. It remains unclear whether this remark was made in earnest or in jest, leaving the extent of her absence's impact on the event's logistics uncertain.
The timeline for the match is contingent on Joshua's upcoming fight against Kristian Prenga on 25 July in Saudi Arabia. Queensberry promoter Frank Warren has indicated that a loss for Joshua in that bout would likely scupper the planned encounter with Fury. Consequently, the exact date for the heavyweight clash depends on the outcome of the July fixture.
Musical acts have become a standard feature at major boxing events in recent years, with high-profile artists such as Eminem, Liam Gallagher, and 50 Cent performing at previous high-profile bouts. Dua Lipa, known for global hits including 'New Rules' and 'Levitating', would have been a significant addition to the entertainment lineup had she accepted the offer.
Tyson Fury recently returned from retirement with a victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov and is currently exploring further bouts while waiting for the Joshua fight to be confirmed. The refusal of the pop star to headline the event does not alter the fundamental requirements for the bout to proceed, which remain tied to Joshua's performance in July.
