Pop sensation Dua Lipa has declined an invitation to perform at the upcoming heavyweight boxing match between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua. The Saudi promoter, Turki Al-Sheikh, who is instrumental in organizing major boxing events, had reportedly suggested that Lipa’s performance was a crucial element for the fight to proceed in London. While the offer was extended, reports indicate that the Grammy-winning artist chose not to participate.
Dua Lipa Declines Headline Slot for Fury vs. Joshua; Fight’s London Future Uncertain
The highly anticipated bout between British heavyweights Fury and Joshua has been formally agreed upon after years of negotiations. Anthony Joshua, 36, is scheduled to face Kristian Prenga in Saudi Arabia on July 25th, with the showdown against Fury planned for the fall, likely in October at Wembley Stadium. Meanwhile, Tyson Fury, 37, recently secured a victory against Arslanbek Makhmudov and is also expected to have a preliminary fight. Turki Al-Sheikh, chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, had expressed a desire for Dua Lipa to headline the entertainment for the Wembley event.
According to sources, Al-Sheikh may have jokingly, or seriously, indicated that securing Dua Lipa’s performance was a condition for the London venue. Reports from iFL TV suggest Al-Sheikh informed Netflix that the fight’s London staging was contingent on her participation. While the BBC confirmed that the approach was made, the 30-year-old singer, a multiple Grammy Award winner, ultimately said no.
Dua Lipa has achieved significant fame with hits such as “New Rules,” “Don’t Start Now,” “Levitating,” “Dance The Night,” “Houdini,” and “Training Season.” She has also collaborated with prominent artists like Elton John on “Cold Heart” and Calvin Harris on “One Kiss.” Her latest album, “Radical Optimism,” was released in May 2024, and she has since headlined Glastonbury and performed sold-out shows at Wembley in June 2025. Currently, there are no Wembley dates listed for her in 2026.
It is common practice for major boxing events in Saudi Arabia to feature musical performances. For instance, Eminem performed at a 2024 event headlined by Terence Crawford against Israil Madrimov, and Liam Gallagher performed before Joshua’s bout against Daniel Dubois in the same year. These performances are often seen as a way to attract a broader audience beyond boxing enthusiasts.
Despite Dua Lipa’s refusal, the fight agreement is expected to remain intact. Organizers are still aiming for an October date at Wembley Stadium, although the exact date and venue are not yet finalized. Al-Sheikh’s statement has generated considerable discussion, but insiders suggest it was likely said with a degree of jest. Joshua is focused on his upcoming fight against Prenga in Riyadh, while Fury is preparing for his next steps. Fans eagerly await the all-British clash, regardless of the musical entertainment provided.
