Daniel Dubois and Craig Richards to feature on ‘5vs5’ boxing show in Riyadh

South London boxers Daniel Dubois and Craig Richards will both feature on a show in Riyadh on June 1 that is headlined by the undisputed light-heavyweight championship between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol.

A press conference yesterday announced the five bouts pitting Queensberry and Matchroom Boxing fighters against each other.

Frank Warren’s Queensberry have selected Dubois (20-2, 19 KOs) to go up against IBF number one contender Filip Hrgovic(17-0, 14 KOs) to determine who will be first in line to fight for the IBF world heavyweight title later this year.

Matchroom’s former British champion and WBA world title challenger Richards(18-3-1, 11 KOs) will take on Queensberry light-heavyweight and former world amateur champion Willy Hutchinson(17-1, 13 KOs).

Warren, chairman of Queensberry, said: “The night of June 1 will mark a thrilling and spectacular return to Riyadh, where the pride and reputation of two companies will be at stake in the 5 vs 5 concept that neither promoter dares to contemplate losing.

“Thanks to the vision of His Excellency Turki Alalshikh we can now look forward to unprecedented events such as this on a regular basis and nights at the Kingdom Arena are now an established and welcome fixture in the world boxing diary. Our five selected champions are ready to rule in Riyadh.”

Hearn, chairman of Matchroom Sport, said: “The best sport stems from the greatest rivalries. And on June 1, I am confident Matchroom will reign supreme over Queensberry.

“I have assembled a team of elite world beaters who are ready to do the business. Losing isn’t an option.

“With the brilliant Dmitry Bivol challenging for the undisputed light-heavyweight championship, this is without doubt one of the best boxing cards of all-time – and we’ve already seen a few contenders in Riyadh, all thanks to the outstanding vision of His Excellency Turki Alalshikh.

“I’m sure this unprecedented five-versus-five will be the first of many duels with Frank Warren and his team – and may the best man win.”

PICTURES: MARK ROBINSON/MATCHROOM