2023 Was a Big Year for Boxing in Saudi Arabia and Soccer Star Cristiano Ronaldo’s Attendance Only Added to Its Charm

The name Cristiano Ronaldo and the sport of football have become synonymous over the years. However, the Portuguese forward has proved himself to be a giant fan of boxing in recent years. Whether it’s attending high-profile fights or befriending big names from the combat world, the 38-year-old has been making the headlines for his association with the boxing world. 

Not so long ago, the Al-Nassr ace was spotted in a similar high-profile fight where he was asked whether boxing was his second favorite sport. The striker revealed it’s his third favorite sport. What’s more, the second favorite isn’t far off from boxing either. In a 2022 interview, Ronaldo claimed he prefers to watch MMA and boxing over football. It begs the question – how many boxing events did he attend this year? 

Cristiano Ronaldo doesn’t miss a fight

Since his move to Saudi’s Al-Nassr FC, the Portuguese forward has been residing in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. So, every time there’s a high-profile fight in the country, Ronaldo has been spotted in the audience. 

Jake Paul vs. Tommy Fury

Back on 26 February 2023, Jake Paul met Tommy Fury in the ring at the Diriyah Arena in Saudi Arabia. While Paul suffered his first career loss during the fight, Ronaldo was in the audience, taking in the spectacle. Earlier during the same event, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner shared a picture of himself with Mike Tyson on his social media. Other big names in the audience were – Tyson Fury and Deontay Wilder, who met each other for the first time since their third fight.

Tyson Fury vs. Francis Ngannou

The Tyson Fury vs. Francis Ngannou fight was the biggest cross-over boxing event since Floyd Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor. The fight was held at the Boulevard Hall, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on 28 October 2023. As expected, Cristiano Ronaldo attended the event along with his girlfriend. Interestingly, the football superstar has a passion for finely crafted watches, something that was in full display during the fight. The watch was from Jacob & Co. and is named ‘White Gold Twin Turbo Furious Twin Triple Axis Tourbillon Factory Set.’ It featured 344 baguette-cut white diamonds. More importantly, there were only 18 such pieces ever made, justifying its $1.3 million price tag. 

‘Day of Reckoning’ event involving Deontay Wilder and Anthony Joshua

Last night, Deontay Wilder and Anthony Joshua featured in the ‘Day of Reckoning’ fight card in Kingdom Arena, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Ronaldo was seen sitting beside Conor McGregor, engrossed in what appeared to be an interesting conversation. Ronaldo was also joined by His Excellency Turki Al-Sheikh.

Also Read: Despite $220 Million Contract With Saudi League, Cristiano Ronaldo Jokingly Approached by Boxing Promoter to Join Arsenal

Despite being the epitome of football, Cristiano Ronaldo has proven his love for boxing through his involvement in the industry. Did you know Ronaldo loved boxing?

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