Not Madison Square Garden or Barclays Center: This is why Times Square will hold the Fatal Fury boxing event

The Ring, now led by Turki Alalshikh—one of the key figures behind Riyadh Season and the man responsible for organizing major boxing events in Saudi Arabia—is putting together a historic event right in the heart of New York City.

They could have chosen Madison Square Garden or even the Barclays Center Arena, but the organizers knew they needed something different—something fans would remember for years to come.

According to DAZN, which holds exclusive global broadcast rights, the goal is to generate massive media attention and offer a one-of-a-kind visual experience, allowing fans to witness epic showdowns with the iconic backdrop of Times Square.

This event is more about the experience than profit. Turki Alalshikh stated that he wanted to be the first to host a boxing event in Times Square—and even made admission free, which, according to Golden Boy Promotions’ Oscar De La Hoya, is expected to draw over half a million spectators.

On the broadcasting side, however, it’s a full-fledged business. DAZN is airing the Fatal Fury fight card, which includes Ryan Garcia vs. Rolly Romero, Teofimo Lopez vs. Arnold Barboza Jr., and Devin Haney vs. Jose Ramirez, along with the Canelo Álvarez vs. William Scull bout. Both events are being offered as a package for $89.99.

Three fights with highstakes

Although only the matchup between Teofimo Lopez and Arnold Barboza Jr. has a title on the line this Friday in Times Square, all three fights carry high stakes.

After a turbulent year and a half, Ryan Garcia is stepping back into the ring. He hasn’t fought since his knockout loss to Devin Haney on April 20, 2024—a result that was later overturned after Garcia tested positive for ostarine. Now, he faces Rolly Romero, looking to rebuild his image.

Haney himself is also returning to the ring, this time against Jose Ramirez. Following his loss to Garcia, Haney knows a win is crucial to restoring his credibility in the sport—even if his official record remains unblemished.

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