RIYADH — In a pulse-pounding clash titled "Battle of the Baddest," British boxer Tyson Fury clinched the championship in a 10-round face-off against former world champion in mixed martial arts, Francis Ngannou. The adrenaline-fueled spectacle unfolded at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, drawing a massive crowd, chosen by the organizers of the Riyadh Season to kick off its fourth edition. Following an intense exchange of blows, the judges unanimously declared Tyson Fury the victor, with the championship belt ceremoniously bestowed upon him in the ring by the advisor, Turki Al-Sheikh. This triumph marks Fury's 35th consecutive undefeated match, establishing him as a historic champion in the sport, often referred to as the "Gypsy King." The event boasted a star-studded audience, including sports figures like Cristiano Ronaldo, the captain of Al-Nassr, as well as former stars like Ronaldo and Luis Figo from Brazil and Portugal, respectively. Notable personalities from various sports, particularly boxing and martial arts, were in attendance. Against the backdrop of the "Kingdom Arena" bells, Turki Al-Sheikh, the chairman of the General Entertainment Authority in Saudi Arabia, officially inaugurated the fourth edition of the Riyadh Season. The opening ceremony witnessed a global audience comprising athletes, artists, and martial arts enthusiasts from around the world. In a video broadcast on the main screen following musical and dance performances by international stars, Al-Sheikh promised an exceptional season that would fulfill the dreams and ambitions of everyone, warmly welcoming the audience to the Riyadh Season. The announcement was met with enthusiastic applause and cheers from the present crowd. The highlight of the Riyadh Season's opening was the showdown between Francis Ngannou, the heavyweight champion in mixed martial arts, and Tyson Fury, the heavyweight champion of the World Boxing Council, chosen by the General Entertainment Authority as the "Battle of the Baddest" matchup to inaugurate the fourth edition of the season. In a powerful and exciting undercard fight, boxer Jack McGann emerged victorious in the first match of the night. The second undercard fight between Carlos Takam and Martin Bakole saw Martin Bakole securing a win. Additionally, Makhmudov claimed victory over Anthony Wright in the fourth undercard match, adding to the excitement of the opening season spectacle.
