Pop star declines to perform at Joshua, Fury fight

Pop star Dua Lipa is not expected to perform at the long-awaited heavyweight clash between Britain’s Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury, despite earlier suggestions that her involvement could be part of the event’s global entertainment package.

Joshua, 36, and Fury, 37, have agreed terms for a blockbuster all-British fight targeted for late 2026, with Saudi Arabia positioned as a key host for the high-profile showdown.

As reported by BBC Sport on Friday, reports had circulated that Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority chairman, Turki Al-Sheikh, floated the idea that a major musical act could be tied to the promotion of the bout, with Dua Lipa among those considered.

However, BBC Sport understands that the award-winning singer was approached but declined the offer and is not expected to be involved in the event.

Dua Lipa, known globally for hits such as New Rules, Don’t Start Now, and Levitating, is one of the world’s most successful pop artists and a regular feature at major international events.

In recent years, musical performances have become a signature feature of major boxing nights, blending sport and entertainment on a global stage. Rapper Eminem previously walked out with Terence Crawford for his fight against Errol Spence Jr, while Liam Gallagher performed ahead of Daniel Dubois’ 2024 bout with Joshua at Wembley. American rapper 50 Cent also featured during Chris Eubank Jr’s ring walk for his rematch with Conor Benn.

The venue for the Fury vs Joshua fight is yet to be confirmed, although Wembley Stadium remains the leading option under consideration, with October being discussed as a possible date window.

Before any potential meeting with Fury, Joshua must first face Kristian Prenga in a scheduled bout in July in Saudi Arabia. Fury, meanwhile, has returned from retirement and is expected to take at least one more fight while negotiations continue.

Promoter Frank Warren has suggested that Joshua’s performance in his next outing could be decisive in keeping the long-discussed Fury fight alive, warning that a loss could derail plans for the heavyweight showdown.

If it eventually takes place, Fury vs Joshua is expected to be one of the biggest boxing events in history, with both fighters set for record-breaking paydays and global attention.