Fury vs Joshua fight at risk as Cardiff Council has yet to approve the 2am start needed for December bout

From the Newshound archive · first published 24 September 2026 · last updated 25 September 2026.

Cardiff Council has yet to approve the licence amendment required for the Fury vs Joshua heavyweight bout to begin at its anticipated 2am start time, leaving the December 11 fight in doubt. Principality Stadium's owner, the Welsh Rugby Union, says the contest cannot go ahead without the updated premises licence. Promoter Eddie Hearn confirmed the ring walk is likely between 1am and 2am to serve Netflix's American audience.

Fans have vented fury online at the Cardiff venue and the 2am Friday night timing, with one calling it 'an absolute shambles' and many having wanted Wembley.

Manny Pacquiao could reportedly return to the ring on the undercard against Shakur Stevenson, with Netflix reportedly pushing hard for a second marquee fight in Cardiff.