August 20 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Oleksandr Usyk (19-0, 13 KOs) will defend his IBF, WBA and WBO heavyweight titles in a rematch with Anthony Joshua (24-2, 22 KOs).
"I have a goal! And with God's help, I will fulfill my mission," Oleksandr Usyk said.
“To fight for the heavyweight championship for the 12th time in a row is like a rollercoaster ride,” said Joshua. “I won the belt, had a unification fight and got another title, then I lost my belts, became a two-time champion, and now I have the opportunity to go down in history again as a three-time unified world heavyweight champion. This is a huge opportunity!”
“Of course, there were many pros and cons in my career, but I decided that every day I should become stronger, learn from my experience and grow. A happy fighter is a dangerous fighter and I am happier and more motivated than ever!”
In September 2021 at Tottenham Hotspur in London, undisputed cruiserweight champion Oleksandr Usyk stripped Anthony Joshua of his heavyweight titles with a points victory.
“We are very proud that Saudi Arabia will be hosting a sporting event of this caliber. After all, Oleksandr Usyk and Anthony Joshua are incredible champions with different histories of their formation and unique styles. We look forward to welcoming them to our land,” said Prince Khalid ibn Abdulaziz, Head of Skill Challenge Entertainment Est.
“Our team is thrilled to be able to stage one of the most outstanding heavyweight rematches in modern boxing history and to give Anthony Joshua the chance to reclaim what he lost in London last year. Of course, we know well that Oleksandr Usyk is an excellent fighter, and we were convinced of this once again last time. However, I know for sure that Anthony Joshua is as fit as ever,” said Matchroom Boxing head Eddie Hearn.
“In 2019, we had the honor to organize the fight between Anthony Joshua and Andy Ruiz in Saudi Arabia, so this time we are incredibly happy that we will again cooperate with this wonderful country, and together we will prepare an event of historical significance. So, undoubtedly, all the eyes of the world will be riveted to the ring on Saturday, August 20th. This comeback story and countdown starts right now.”
“This fight will be bigger and more spectacular than the first, I assure you. A new history is being created before our eyes, so participation in such an event is a great honor. Now Ukraine is fighting for its sacred heritage, so our mission is to fill and enrich it,” said Oleksandr Krasyuk, CEO of K2 Promotions.
Usyk-Joshua 2 fight received the working title Rage on the Red Sea (Rage on the Red Sea).
