Mark Lyson, a judge and referee for many high-profile bouts, was soaking in the atmosphere before he began his official capacities on fight night. He was another face left stunned by the potential collapse of what was certain to be a heavyweight blockbuster.

Saturday's boxing card in Saudi Arabia has a new co-main event, as Joseph Parker will meet Martin Bakole instead of Daniel Dubois.

Daniel Dubois has pulled out of his IBF world heavyweight title defence against New Zealand’s Joseph Parker 48 hours before the bout because of illness. The British fighter, who dismantled Anthony Joshua at Wembley four months ago,