By Turki Al Mutairi | Contributing Writer
Diriyah hosted the long-awaited boxing match titled “The Truth” as part of the Diriyah season on Sunday, February 26th. The main event of the night was a fight between Tommy Fury and Jake Paul. It was a tough fight, but Tommy Fury won on a split decision from the judges, preserving his place as a rising boxing star.
But the night didn’t just belong to Fury. The co-main event saw WBC World Cruiserweight champion Ilunga Junior Makabu of Johannesburg take on Badou ‘Jack the Ripper’ Jack for the title. Makabu lost his title in the 12th and final round of the fight, with ‘Jack the Ripper’ claiming the massive title of WBC World Cruiserweight champion. His win meant more however, as it put him in the history books as the first ever Muslim to win this title.
Several fights were on the undercard of “The Truth” main event. One unforgettable fight featured Saudi Arabia’s first female boxer, Ragad Al-Naimi, who made her professional debut against Perpetual Okaidah. It was a historic occasion, as Al-Naimi won by technical knockout, becoming the first Saudi female boxer to win a professional fight.
The night also saw local hero Ziyad Al Mayouf, better known by his nickname ‘Zizo’, step into the ring against Ecuador’s Ronald Martinez. It was a tough match, but Zizo emerged victorious, thrilling the home crowd with his performance.
The fights also brought together some of the world’s toughest sporting legends. Boxing legend Mike Tyson was present in the audience, as was Tyson Fury, Tommy Fury’s half-brother and a two-time world heavyweight champion. Football superstar and Al Nassr’s forward Cristiano Ronaldo was there too, further adding to the star-studded event.
The fight night dubbed “The Truth” was an outstanding triumph, not because of the thrilling matchups but also for the monumental achievements of some fighters. From Tommy Fury’s well-deserved win to Ragad Al-Naimi’s groundbreaking victory, the event was unforgettable for boxing enthusiasts and advocates of breaking stereotypes and accomplishing milestones. The Diriyah season once again displayed the finest of Saudi Arabia, and “The Truth” fight night exemplified the country’s continued dedication to excellence in sports and other fields.