Dua Lipa turns down a performance invitation at Fury v. Joshua

Pop sensation Dua Lipa is not anticipated to participate in the heavyweight fight between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua later this year.

Joshua, 36, and Fury, 37, both Britons, have reached an agreement for a long-awaited all-British fight that is scheduled to take place at the end of 2026.

Turki Al-Sheikh, the chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, had warned that if Dua Lipa declined to participate in the event’s promotion, the fight might be in jeopardy.

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BBC Sport understands that the 30-year-old singer was approached about performing but turned down the offer, and it is not anticipated that she will participate in the event. However, it is unclear whether the comment was made in genuine or in jest.

New Rules, Don’t Start Now, and Levitating are just a few of Dua Lipa’s worldwide hits, making her one of the most successful pop musicians in the world.

Although Wembley Stadium in October is reportedly the organizers’ top choice, a location for Fury v. Joshua has not yet been decided.

In recent years, musical performances during prestigious boxing tournaments have gained popularity.

Rapper Eminem went to the ring with Terence Crawford to battle Errol Spence Jr. for the welterweight title. Liam Gallagher, the leader of Oasis, played a number of songs prior to Daniel Dubois’ victory over Anthony Joshua at Wembley in 2024. Additionally, 50 Cent performed on the ringwalk for Chris Eubank Jr.’s rematch with Conor Benn last year.

Joshua, the former unified champion, must defeat Kristian Prenga on July 25 in Saudi Arabia before he can face Fury.

Fury defeated Arslanbek Makhmudov last month to make his comeback from retirement, but as he awaits Joshua, he is considering fighting again.

A defeat for Joshua in July would probably ruin a fight with the Gypsy King, according to Queensberry promoter Frank Warren, who advises Fury.

Joshua and Fury have been connected to a fight for a long time, but throughout the past ten years, multiple attempts to get them in the ring have failed.

Both guys are anticipated to receive a career-high salary if the fight proceeds as scheduled.

BBCSports