EXCLUSIVE: Prince William is set to take up the role of usher at the Duke of Westminster’s wedding on June 7, but sources tell Express.co.uk that it should have been Prince Harry who took on a leading role.
Prince Harry and Prince William’s relationship shows no signs of improving (Image: Getty)
Prince Harry declined his ‘save the date’ invitation to the Duke of Westminster’s wedding after discovering his brother Prince William was set to take a leading role, it has been claimed.
The Prince of Wales is set to be an usher at the wedding of Hugh Grosvenor and Olivia Henson at Chester Cathedral, which will take place on June 7.
Sources claim that by bringing William into the bosom of the event, Prince Harry is said to have felt sidelined and so declined the invitation.
“William was asked to take up a leading role in the wedding and that’s what triggered Harry to decline an invitation. It was the final nail in the coffin,” the source told Express.co.uk. “Harry was very close to Hugh growing up so everyone thought it would have been him taking up a leading role, not William.”
It was first revealed in December that Prince Harry was not attending the wedding, which has been dubbed a ‘Royal wedding in all but name’, thanks to its high-level of expected Royal attendance.
Read more: Real reason for Harry’s royal rift as Charles’s ‘red line’ laid bare
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Last year there was initial speculation that Prince Harry had been ‘snubbed’ from the event, but a source close to the Sussexes was at pains to explain to US publication Page Six that both Meghan and Harry had in fact received invites but had jointly decided to decline.
While the statement ended speculation that Hugh’s wedding would see the brothers reunited face-to-face for the first time since the Princess of Wales’s cancer diagnosis, it prompted a friend to say it was ‘incredibly sad it has come to this’.
Harry was said to have called the Duke himself to apologise for any inconvenience at him having to refuse but his true reasons remained a mystery, aside from the obvious ‘awkwardness’ with his family.
“Hugh and Harry were very close so it’s all so sad,” the source said. “Harry was at Hugh’s 21st birthday party and also went travelling with him to Africa. He’s also a lot closer in age to Harry whereas William is eight or nine years older.
“When they were growing up Harry and Hugh were much closer. Hugh was a young boy when William was in his late teens and early twenties. That’s why this has all come as such a shock.”
King Charles and Queen Camilla may make a surprise appearance at the wedding (Image: Getty)
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A source claimed recently that Catherine’s name has not yet formally been removed from the guest list – which was put together last year, long before Catherine became aware she was ill – but warned that her name remaining on the list does not guarantee her attendance.
“William and Kate are both on the guest list and there has been no declining her invitation. But that might be because they have spoken informally. A lot is still up in the air with the Wales family,” the source said.
Catherine is well known to politely decline weddings, where possible, to avoid upstaging the bride.
Aides say that, with Catherine unwell, nothing at all in the Wales’s calendar is nailed-on. However, William’s decision to leave her side and visit to the Isles of Scilly recently was seen as a small sign that she may be doing better.
On February 27, Prince William pulled out of a memorial at St George’s Chapel Windsor at the last minute due to an undisclosed ‘personal matter’, even though his name was on the order of service. Three weeks later, Catherine released a video statement telling the world she was undergoing preventative treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer.
Kate and William’s 10-year-old son Prince George, the Duke of Westminster’s godson, is also expected to take a role at the wedding.
The Duke of Westminster is also godfather to the Sussexes’ son, Prince Archie.
Known as ‘Huey-boy’ to Harry, the 33-year-old remains one of very few close friends of William and Harry’s who managed to maintain strong a line of communication with both sides.
The Duke – dubbed the most eligible man in Britain thanks to his £10 billion wealth – is also close to his godfather, Charles, and walked in the King’s coronation procession carrying Royal standards.
“It’s still not confirmed as to whether the King and Queen will attend the wedding,” the source said. “They have a very busy schedule lined up around that date so it will be a case of how the King feels on the day following a busy few days in France for the D-Day commemorations on June 6.”
The billionaire Duke is hosting the wedding reception at his 10,872-acre Eaton Hall estate in Cheshire where he and his bride Olivia plan to move as soon as they are married. They are said to be keen to start a family right away.
A friend of the couple said last night: “It means a lot to the couple to be getting married at Chester Cathedral, it is where they will be putting down roots for the future. They are making a conscious effort to involve local and regional suppliers in several aspects of their day. The couple are incredibly grateful for the support and messages of congratulations they have received, especially from people in the region.”
The Duke plans to run his family head office from London while Olivia intends to continue her career in the sustainable food sector from the North.
Family friend Emily Few Brown, who runs catering firm Spook London, an ‘ingredient-led’ catering company with sustainable credentials and an emphasis on growing and foraging its own food, is said to be lending a helping hand for the event.
“Chester Cathedral will be closed on June 6 for rehearsals and there will be a rehearsal dinner in the evening,” the source concludes. “The wedding on the 7th will be very much about focusing on local produce and sustainability.
“Guests have been asked to make donations to the Westminster Foundation instead of handing out gifts and they [Hugh and Olivia] are trying to make it as low-key as it can possibly be.”
A spokesman for the Duke of Westminster declined to comment.
Three weeks later, Catherine released a video statement telling the world she was undergoing preventative treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer.
Prince William has reportedly stepped back out there with a ‘business as usual’ approach on a recent visit, following allegations published in Omid Scobie’s new book.
Prince William has emerged more confident following the feud with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle (Image: Getty)
Prince William has made a huge change regarding his body language as he and the rest of the Royal Family grow weary of the Prince Harry and Meghan Markle drama.
The Prince of Wales appeared happy and “comfortable” on a recent royal engagement in Manchester, in spite of controversial claims made in Omid Scobie’s new biography Endgame, which was published in serial form last week.
Body language analyst Judi James told the Mirror: “If his body language signals here contain any responses to the latest attempts to skewer the royals via some barbed quotes in the Scobie book it’s more like a hint of mild exasperation than any appearance of being genuinely rattled.
“All the Firm should be tired of this game by now but although every missile is missing its mark the overall effect must be wearying.
“Despite this though or perhaps because of it, William looks even more determined than usual to throw himself into his causes and to immerse himself with the people he meets.”
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Lauren Welch
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Lauren Welch
Meghan Markle accused of using ‘typical celebrity move’ to ‘create buzz’ around her
One PR expert has expressed their opinion on Meghan Markle’s unexpected appearance at a gala hosted by Variety last week.
Meghan Markle has been accused of using a “typical celebrity move”, in order to “create buzz” around her.
Last week, the former royal made an unexpected appearance at a gala, which was hosted by Variety, in Los Angeles.
Meghan took an evening away from mum duties (Image: GETTY)
Lauren Welch
Prince Harry and Meghan ‘tarnished’ Archie and Lilibet returning as working royals
Through Prince Harry and Meghan Markle decided to leave the Royal Family, they also made the decision for their children, Archie, four, and Lilibet, two, to retain their titles.
King Charles has gone out of his way to spend more time with Prince William’s children, it’s been said. But, little is known about how close he is with Prince Harry’s children, Archie and Lilbet.
The children still retain their titles, and royal watchers have been wondering whether they have a future as working royals.
Meghan and Harry have two children – son Archie, 4, and daughter Lilibet, 2 (Image: GETTY)
Lauren Welch
Princess Kate’s most glamorous ball gowns and royal tiaras
Kate, the Princess of Wales is known for her elegant style, with fans often keen to get their hands on the exact items or replicas of her wardrobe.
When it comes to dressing the part, the 41-year-old royal very rarely misses the mark.
Whether it be a state dinner, a rare red carpet appearance or a royal engagement, Princess Kate’s fashion choices are on-point every single time.
Thanks to glittering state dinners or high-profile royal visits, we are often treated to seeing the royal in stunning ball gowns and, sometimes, a gorgeous tiara or two.
Here, Express.co.uk delves into the moments when Princess Kate has stunned royal fans in some of the most glamorous ball gowns and royal tiaras.
Princess Kate is known for her elegant style (Image: GETTY)
Lauren Welch
Meghan Markle in ‘panic mode’ over ‘dwindling royal connection’
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry stepped down from royal duties at the start of 2020, with the Duchess’ stint as a working royal lasting less than two years.
Meghan Markle is currently in “panic mode”, as the 42-year-old struggles to cling on to the royal connections she once had, one royal source has claimed.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex moved to California after making the decision to step down as working royals in 2020.
Meghan is currently in ‘panic mode’, an expert has said (Image: GETTY)
Lauren Welch
Princess Kate got away with wearing a knee-length dress and Meghan’s fans are not happy
When it comers to royal rules, no cleavage should be shown, and the hem of a skirt should be close to the top of the knee, according to Vogue magazine.
Princess Kate wore a red dress and red cape for a state visit. Her attire was deemed captivating by onlookers and the press. The look was dubbed “one of her best cape coats yet” by Vogue.
But Meghan Markle fans claimed when the Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle wore a similar look she was criticised. They noted Kate’s hemline fell above the knee, something they claimed Meghan was reprimanded for by onlookers in the past.
Kate wore a knee-length dress on Tuesday (Image: GETTY)
Lauren Welch
Princess Anne’s cutting remark shows how she really feels about Prince Harry and Meghan
In an interview with Canadian broadcaster CBC Princess Anne made her views on the newer slimmed-down monarchy quite plain.
Princess Anne made a cutting remark to show how she really feels about Prince Harry and Meghan Markle leaving the Royal Family.
Speaking to CBC earlier this year the Princess Royal shared her views on King Charles’s plans for a more slimmed-down monarchy, indicating the decision might have been made before certain senior royals took a step down from their duties.
Princess Anne has spoken out on her feelings about Harry and Meghan (Image: GETTY)
Lauren Welch
Spain lets residents get in touch with Princess Leonor as Leonormania grips the country
The Spanish Royal Family has now given all residents a way to contact the future Queen of Spain as her profile rises.
The people of Spain have been given a way to contact Princess Leonor as Leonormania grips the country.
Princess Leonor of Spain recently celebrated her 18th birthday and it marked a big milestone as she begins to work as a senior royal.
Princess Leonor turned 18 last month (Image: GETTY)
Lauren Welch
Prince Harry left Meghan Markle crushed after blunder at first royal Christmas
Meghan Markle previously opened up about what spending Christmas alongside the Royal Family is really like.
Prince Harry reportedly left Meghan Markle crushed after a festive blunder at their first-ever royal Christmas in 2017.
With this year’s festive season fast approaching, it appears that Harry, Meghan and their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, won’t be spending Christmas with the royals in the UK.
Meghan joined the royals for Christmas in 2017 (Image: GETTY)
Lauren Welch
Prince William sparks fan frenzy as he dons Army uniform in Salisbury
Prince William visited the Mercian Regiment at Salisbury Plain.
Prince William sparked fan frenzy after he was spotted wearing an Army uniform in Salisbury today.
The Prince of Wales, who is the Colonel-in-Chief, 1st Battalion The Mercian Regiment, was visiting the Regiment for the first time at Salisbury Plain.
Prince William donned an Army uniform (Image: GETTY)
Lauren Welch
Princess Kate gets King’s final seal of approval with special loan from royal vault
Catherine, the Princess of Wales was the first royal to don the Strathmore Rose tiara after the piece spent decades away from the public eye.
Kate, the Princess of Wales got the ultimate seal of approval from King Charles III when he loaned her a “precious” tiara that once belonged to his beloved grandmother.
The Strathmore Rose tiara was presented to Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon to mark her wedding to future King George VI in 2023.
Kate pictured on Tuesday (Image: GETTY)
Lauren Welch
Prince William and Princess Kate drafted in as King Charles to miss major event
Prince William and Princess Kate will be the royal guests at an event traditionally attended by reigning monarchs, as King Charles set to miss out again.
King Charles and Queen Camilla are set to miss one of the biggest events on the royal calendar, with Prince William and Princess Kate are drafted in their place.
The Prince and Princess of Wales are set to attend the Royal Variety Performance next week, held at the Royal Albert Hall in London, joined by Victoria, Crown Princess of Sweden, and her husband Prince Daniel.
Kate and William will step in the King and Queen’s place (Image: PA)
Lauren Welch
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Catherine Meyer-Funnell
King Charles and Queen Camilla thank four Korean War veterans for their service
Richard Palmer, Daily Express Royal Correspondent:
At the end of the three-day visit by President Yoon Suk Yeol and his wife Kim Keon Hee, Charles and Camilla marked the 70th anniversary year of the end of the war between China and Soviet-backed North Korea and UN-supported South Korea.
They met the four Chelsea Pensioners, all in their nineties, in the Marble Corridor at Buckingham Palace shortly after the departure of the President and First Lady, who thanked them at Westminster Abbey on Tuesday for helping to save the country from a Communist takeover.
Peter Fullelove, 90, a veteran of the Black Watch regiment, made the King laugh by discussing his problems as a parachutist finding a clearing in the jungle during operations in another country, Malaya. The monarch had spotted his parachute wings on his red uniform.
“They dropped me in Malaya but the only problem was the bloody trees, you see,” he said. “It brought a smile to his face anyway.”
It has been a busy week of hosting for the King and Queen (Image: Getty)
Catherine Meyer-Funnell
Prince Louis could miss out on huge event for third time but George and Charlotte can go
Prince Louis is once again set to miss out on the annual royal festive concert at Westminster Abbey, even though his older siblings Prince George and Princess Charlotte can go.
Princess Kate’s carol concert has become something of a tradition, having begun just a few years ago.
Speaking to the BBC about the relationship between the three royal children and their parents, royal expert Jennie Bond said: “William and Catherine undoubtedly have the same battles so many parents endure, about screen time and sibling squabbles.
“But the children seem to generally get along pretty well, with sporty Charlotte singing and dancing, and being quite cheeky, and Louis a bundle of mischief, probably getting away with a heck of a lot more because he’s the youngest.”
Prince Louis is still not permitted to go to the royal carol concert (Image: Getty)
Catherine Meyer-Funnell
Prince William reveals George and Louis’ favourite bands couldn’t be more different
Prince William gave an insight into his son’s favourite bands, and they are not at all similar.
William met American band OneRepublic when they performed at the Earthshot Awards in Singapore and told them that Louis loved their music.
George however prefers heavier stuff, like AC/DC and Led Zeppelin.
George and Louis like very different bands (Image: Getty)
Catherine Meyer-Funnell
Queen Camilla dazzles in royal blue at Buckingham Palace banquet with South Korea’s leader
Queen Camilla and King Charles bid farewell to the South Korean President and First Lady on the final day of their state visit.
The Queen wore royal blue for the send-off at Buckingham Palace, a similar hue to the one she wore at Horse Guards Parade for their official welcome on Tuesday.
For the state banqet that night however she broke with her habit and donned a stunning red instead.
Camilla and Charles at Buckingham Palace today (Image: Getty)
Catherine Meyer-Funnell
Meghan Markle bought herself a watch and had it engraved with a surprising note
Meghan Markle has often been seen over the years wearign a Cartier Tank Française watch, like the one Princess Diana owned.
While Prince Harry has given his wife the watch his mother had, she also bought herself one once she became a successful TV actor.
She also had it engraved on the back and says she plans to give it to her daughter one day.
Meghan bought herself an expensive Cartier watch (Image: Getty)
Catherine Meyer-Funnell
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry issued ‘rude awakening’ on royal life in the US
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are not as popular in the US as they would like to believe, as political commentator Lauren Chen said there was “no appetite” for them.
She added that Meghan had been “wrong” to assume that marrying into the Royal Family would make her more popular.
Ms Chen told GB News: “The docuseries was universally panned from what I saw. There is just no appetite for what Harry and Meghan are trying to sell anymore.”
Harry and Meghan are not the most popular royals in the US (Image: Getty)
Catherine Meyer-Funnell
Prince William and Princess Kate drafted in as King Charles to miss major event
King Charles will not be able to attend the Royal Variety Performance this year, as he will be at COP28 in Dubai.
This means Prince William and Princess Kate will attend in his place, as it is traditional for a royal representative to be there.
They will be joined at the Royal Albert Hall next week by Victoria, Crown Princess of Sweden, and her husband Prince Daniel.
Kate and William will be at the Royal Variety Performance next week (Image: Getty)
Catherine Meyer-Funnell
Prince Harry and Meghan ‘tarnished’ Archie and Lilibet returning as working royals
An expert has claimed that Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet could get involved with the Royal Family in the future, but they will be a disadvantage.
Due to them growing up in California, they “wouldn’t know where to start”, according to Kara Kennedy.
She explained: “They are sixth and seventh in line to the throne and you’ll remember that Harry and Meghan fought hard for their children’s titles to remain, even though to the public, it went against everything that the Sussexes had previously argued.”
Harry and Meghan have been bringing their family up away from the royals (Image: Getty)
Catherine Meyer-Funnell
Royal Family have ‘bad feeling’ Prince Harry plans to ‘betray them again’ for money
Prince Harry and King Charles may be starting to re-establish contact, but some members of the Firm are concerned that the Duke could once again use them for money.
Former royal butler Paul Burrell said on behalf of Slingo: “I think there is a very bad feeling in the Royal Family about Harry and Meghan that if they let them back into the royal fold they will be betrayed again.
“They see it as airing dirty laundry in public and telling tales in public when they know all too well that they shouldn’t do that.”
Prince Harry has been estranged from the royals (Image: Getty)
Catherine Meyer-Funnell
Princess Kate’s most glamorous ball gowns and royal tiaras
Princess Kate is well-established as a royal style icon, thanks to her classic and elegant fashion sense.
At any occasion Kate looks stunning, especially at state banquets and ceremonies.
Sometimes she pairs these looks with a regal tiara, with Express.co.uk recalling some of Kate’s best outfits here.
Kate stunned yet again this week (Image: Getty)
Catherine Meyer-Funnell
Meghan Markle goes solo without Prince Harry as Sussexes have ‘nothing left to sell’
Meghan Markle paid a solo visit to the Justice for Girls initiative in Vancouver, Canada this week.
She was there without her husband Prince Harry for a “heartfelt conversation” about “justice and equality for teen girls living in poverty in Canada”.
Meghan first visited the group in 2020, just days after she and Harry announced they were leaving the Royal Family.
Meghan has been in Canada this week (Image: Getty)
Natalie Crookham
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Catherine Meyer-Funnell
Princess Anne’s cutting remark shows how she really feels about Prince Harry and Meghan
Speaking to CBC earlier this year Princess Anne gave a hint as to how she feels about Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
Their departure from the Royal Family has had a negative impact on King Charles’s plans for a slimmed-down monarchy.
Anne said of her brother’s plans: “Well, I think the ‘slimmed-down’ (monarchy) was said in a day when there were a few more people around to make that seem like a justifiable comment.”
Anne was left unimpressed by Harry and Meghan (Image: Getty)
Catherine Meyer-Funnell
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle ‘more engaging’ than ‘restrained’ William and Kate
According to a new study from GetInsta, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are more “keen to engage with their audience” than the “conservative” Prince William and Princess Kate.
A spokesperson stated: “Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have shown that they’re keen to engage with their audience online, having released a documentary to connect directly with the public and help shape their narrative.
“It’s no surprise that they are more engaging online than their more restrained and conservative peers, Prince William and Kate Middleton.”
Harry and Meghan are more engaging online (Image: Getty)
Catherine Meyer-Funnell
Body language expert analyses Prince William’s behaviour on royal engagement
Judi James commented on Prince William’s body language on his trip to Manchester, explaining: “”His skills of projecting humility seem enhanced. For a tall man, he manages to bend or stoop enough to lower his signals of power and status and integrate easily with different groups.
“He is also looking more comfortable in his own skin recently. His body language in the past has often looked slightly shy and awkward but coming out of the other side of the battles with his brother, he seems more mature and confident enough to look comfortable and at ease.”
In Endgame Mr Scobie alleged that Harry and Meghan were not told about Queen Elizabeth’s condition on the day of her death until the last minute, with Harry then reportedly hearing she had passed away while still on board a plane bound for Aberdeen.
William having a great time in Manchester (Image: Getty)
Kate Middleton’s ‘brutal’ side effects of cancer treatment laid bare
Princess Kate is believed to be suffering a great deal of discomfort as a result of her ongoing treatment from cancer.
According to RadarOnline, a source told National Enquirer the Princess of Wales is making desperate efforts to keep a brave face in front of her young children; however, the journey hasn’t been co-operative.
As per reports, she is reeling from side effects of preventative chemotherapy, including exhaustion, nausea, and more.
“Kate and William are going through hell behind palace walls,” a high-level royal courtier told the outlet.
They went on to note “it’s becoming more and more difficult” to hide her suffering from Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, 9, and Prince Louis, 6.
New York-based Dr. Stuart Fischer, who has not personally treated Kate, corroborated the tipster’s explanation of the side effects of the treatment, admitting it’s a “destructive process” because the skin, hair, lining of the intestines and bone marrow are all affected.
“Cancer is a physical and emotional burden unlike many other conditions,” he claimed.
For the unversed, the 42-year-old princess unveiled her diagnosis with cancer via a video appearance in March.
The shock announcement followed Kate’s prolonged absence from the public eye since the beginning of the year as she underwent recovery from a major abdominal surgery.
Tyson Fury has proven that muscles and six packs do not define a boxer’s success, but the Gyspy King has joked that an old flashback photo prior to his weight transformation was the epitome of ‘peak male athletic performance’.
The Gypsy King has undertaken an incredible weight loss journey in recent years, battling back from depression and alcohol addiction issues to return to the heavyweight summit. At his heaviest, Fury weighed around 30 stone.
Fury has shared a screenshot of a tweet accompanying an image of himself prior to his 2016 rematch with Wladimir Klitscho, where the Gypsy King admitted he was ‘not an athlete’ before taunting his rival for ‘losing to a fat man’.
Tyson Fury found humour in an old photo of him when out of shape back in 2016, claiming he was the epitome of ‘peak male athletic performance’
He has since undergone a weight transformation and returned to the heavyweight summit
‘I don’t live a strict lifestyle, I don’t even live an athlete’s lifestyle,’ he said at the time. ‘It’s an absolute disgrace to calls me an athlete. You couldn’t call me an athlete, absolutely not.’
That rematch never materialised after Fury stepped away from boxing due to a variety of issues relating to his mental health, weight and drinking.
And Fury has poked fun at a fan’s tweet that included a photograph before his scheduled rematch with Klitschko, claiming that his frame was the epitome of ‘peak male athletic performance’, in defiance of modern sport science.
‘You may not like it, but this body represents peak male athletic performance and there isn’t a god damn thing you can do about it,’ the caption accompanying the picture read. Fury re-shared the photo on Instagram, writing ‘haha’ with the laughing emoji and ‘100’.
The Gypsy King, 33, once admitted he is ‘not an athlete’ prior to his hiatus from boxing
Deontay Wilder and Anthony Joshua have long boasted famously muscular physiques
Fury weighed in at 19st 11lbs for his third fight with Wilder in Las Vegas, stepping on the scales fully clothed while Wilder’s partner mocked the 33-year-old for refusing to reveal his shape.
The Gypsy King took full advantage of his 39-pound weight advantage over the Bronze Bomber, pummelling the knockout artist after climbing off the canvas twice during an exhilarating fourth round.
Wilder’s decision to bulk up backfired in Sin City, with the American running out of steam after just four rounds.
Fury said earlier this summer that looks can be deceiving in boxing when discussing Anthony Joshua – who recently lost his titles to Oleksandr Usyk.
‘I’m absolutely quaking in my boots for the big bodybuilder. I’m s****ing myself because them muscles are terrifying,’ he told talkSPORT.
‘He looks good, but looks can be deceiving. If it was about looks, I wouldn’t be heavyweight champion of the world, would I? Definitely not, I’d be a road sweeper.’
Fury previously said he would be a ‘road sweeper’ if boxing was based purely on looks
Saudi boxing chief Turki Alalshikh has revealed the three fights he wants to make happen – including a bout between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury.
As it stands, Fury is currently preparing for his undisputed world heavyweight title fight against Oleksandr Usyk next month, while ‘AJ’ has just beaten Francis Ngannou.
However, despite their previous or upcoming arrangements, fans have continued discussing a potential bout between the two – with Turki Alalshikh also offering his view.
During an ‘Ask Me Anything Q&A’ on Reddit, Alalshikh revealed the three bouts that he’d like to organise in the future – having played a big role in boxing’s current landscape.
Alalshikh claimed that Fury vs Joshua, Terence Crawford vs Canelo Alvarez and David Benavidez vs Artur Beterbiev are the three fights he’s keen to make happen.
Anthony Joshua (left) and Tyson Fury (right) have been tipped to share the boxing ring in 2024
Saudi powerbroker Turki Alalshikh (pictured) is keen to organise a bout between the two Brits
Given Alalshikh’s power over the sport of boxing, it’s more than likely that some – if not all – of those bouts come to fruition later in the year.
The Saudi boxing chief has already orchestrated Fury’s upcoming bout with Usyk, as well as Joshua’s victory over former UFC champion Ngannou.
Last month, Alalshikh teased a ‘huge’ show at Wembley for later this year – with many suggesting it could be the bout between Joshua and Fury.
He said: ‘I’m talking, thinking and studying with Frank Warren and Eddie Hearn to do something huge in Wembley in the third quarter as a commercial for Riyadh Season.
Just one week before his comments, Eddie Hearn revealed that Joshua and Fury could sign a two-fight deal to finally face each other.
‘This is a gentleman called Turki Alalshikh, who is obviously a very influential figure in sports and entertainment in Saudi Arabia,’ Hearn said on The Sports Agents podcast.
‘He’s also the biggest fight fan I’ve ever met. And quite amazingly, he’s now talking about staging two Fury vs AJ fights – one in Saudi Arabia and one at Wembley Stadium.’
Alalshikh is also targeting a super-fight with Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez (pictured) later this year
The Saudi boxing chief ideally wants to see Alvarez face-off against Terence ‘Bud’ Crawford
Joshua and Fury have both fought at Wembley before, experiencing some of their best nights in boxing at the iconic venue.
AJ beat Wladimir Klitschko in front of 90,000 fans at Wembley in 2017, rising from the canvas to stop the Ukrainian in the 11th round of a back-and-forth contest.
He returned the following year to knock out Russia’s Alexander Povetkin in the seventh round.
Fury was also victorious at the national team stadium as he beat fellow Brit Dillian Whyte in 2022.
TYSON Fury is an extravagant personality at the best times.
And the big character lives a life of luxury away from the ring befitting of his moniker, the Gypsy King.
Tyson Fury lives an extravagant lifestyle away from the ring
Tyson Fury’s amazing £1.7m home in Morecambe
The Gypsy King logo features throughout the propertyCredit: @tysonfury
The British boxing champ is believed to have accrued a wealth of around £130million.
Fury is also set to make £165million from his upcoming fight with Francis Ngannou, as well as two blockbuster fights with Oleksandr Usyk.
That sum will just improve the amazing lifestyle he leads.
From living in a £1.7million Morecambe mansion to an astounding car collection featuring TWO Rolls-Royce motors, Fury leads an extraordinary life.
Here’s just some things he has spent his wealth on.
The abode
Fury went up in the world when he swapped his £550,000 home that overlooked Morecambe Bay for a posher £1.7million mansion in the same area.
Clearly crafted with an open cheque book, the mansion has gold curtains and radiators throughout.
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There are huge chandeliers dangling from the ceilings, and the kitchen is decked out in red marble.
Wife Paris, 33, often gives us a glimpse into her fab property.
On Instagram, she regularly shares snaps in different rooms – dressed head-to-toe in designer clobber.
One photo showed the blonde clutching a Chanel handbag while stood in front of a set of ornate gold curtains.
In another, the beauty is surrounded by family in her kitchen – sipping a coffee and laughing.
Behind her, red-topped marble decorates the surfaces. And there’s also a silver chandelier, fit for a queen, hanging from the ceiling.
In the hallway, Paris – wearing a patterned blouse – leans on a gold radiator that’s clearly a statement piece. Next to her is an outstanding floor to ceiling mirror.
For the musical, underneath the wood staircase is a grand black piano that sits on marble flooring.
In terms of security, the property has a castellated front wall, and a wrought-iron black and gold fence. Of course, that boasts its own lavish decor – with lion motifs and four eagle sculptures on the gate posts.
Unwanted burglars are warned off by signs that reveal the home is guarded by CCTV.
Back in 2020, Tyson Fury upgraded from his £550,000 abode to a stunning £1.7million home in Morecambe.
The Furys bought their £1.7m mansion in 2021
His wife Paris Fury regularly shares images of the home on social media
Sweeping gold curtains adorn the property
A lavish gold radiator and and grand piano can be seen in the hallway
Glam Paris shows off her gold radiator
The home featured heavily in the Netflix show At Home with the Furys, which offered fans a glimpse inside the chaotic and full-on life of Britian’s top heavyweight boxer.
A water fountain can also be seen at the front of the property, while there is also a mini-playground with the “Gypsy King” logo painted on the floor outside.
Of living in Morecambe, Fury said: “Why would I abandon my own country for a bit of money and some fame?
“I love it… It’s true beauty. If the weather was better, every house here would be a million quid.”
The cars
Like many of the world’s successful boxers, cars are a big deal.
Fury has an absolute monster collection of motors he has been seen behind the wheel of.
Most recently, he added a stunning customised Porsche GT3 RS worth over £200,000 to his car collection.
While in 2022, he was mad for motors splashing the cash on two Rolls-Royces worth £384,000 EACH.
In 2019, Fury showed off his red Ferrari Portofino motor, alongside pal Billy Saunders’ similar model in a car park.
Heavyweight star Tyson Fury boasts an epic car collection
Fury showed off a Rolls Royce motor on InstagramCredit: Instagram @tysonfury
Fury added a £250,000 Ferrari GTC4Lusso to his car collection in 2019Credit: BackGrid
Tyson Fury shows off his matching Ferrari Portofino with friend Billy Joe SaundersCredit: Instagram @gypsyking101
Fury unveiled his brand-spanking new Porsche GT3 RS in 2023Credit: INSTAGRAM@TYSONFURY
The Portofino usually retails at around £170,000 for a base model.
He also boasts a Ferrari GTC4Lusso worth a stunning £250,000, which he was seen behind the wheel of in 2019.
But it’s not all glam. Fury also has time for a £20,000 Vauxhall Passat and a Mini Cooper.
The watches
Bling is important to Fury too.
After all, he once sparred Anthony Joshua for a brand new Rolex watch.
The Swiss watchmaker is a favourite of Fury’s, who reportedly owns several.
He once wagered his gold, diamond-encrusted Rolex Daytona Rainbow Sapphire watch to whoever could beat him in the ring.
Then, when he prepared for his showdown with Dillian Whyte in 2022, he flashed another £60,000 diamond-laden 18ct timepiece from the brand.
Others include a Richard Mille RM 011 Flyback Chronograph that costs over £100,000.
Once upon a time, Fury offered this watch up to anyone who can beat himCredit: Twitter, @Tyson_Fury
Fury wore his luxury gold Rolex at Wembley ahead of a fight against Dillian WhyteCredit: Reuters
Rolex fan Fury flashed a £15k Rolex Oyster Perpetual with a red coral dial on his Netflix seriesCredit: NETFLIX
And a Patek Philippe Nautilus Chronograph that’s worth around £90,000.
In his Netflix series, he flashes a Rolex Oyster Perpetual with a red coral dial that’s a more modest £15,000.
In terms of other jewellery, Fury offered to pay £25,000 for the biggest crucifix in the UK in 2022.
Designer wardrobe
There was a point in time when Fury used to live in Versace robes at £400.
A fetching mustard one draped around his 6ft9in frame was seen ahead of his 2021 bout with Deontay Wilder, he donned strolling around a Las Vegas casino.
There was a red robe that he was spotted wearing before he beat Otto Wallin.
But Fury’s eccentric and expensive fashion style doesn’t end there.
First, there was the infamous picture of Tyson wearing a £9,000 chinchilla coat in 2017.
Tyson Fury shows off his Versace robe costing £400Credit: Twitter @Tyson_Fury
Wacky fashion is part of Fury’s lookCredit: Alamy
Fury has shown off his Louis Vuitton collection on InstagramCredit: Instagram
Fury’s mental health suit designed by tailor Nav Salimian turned headsCredit: Splash
Champion Fury lives a lifestyle to envyCredit: Getty
The heavyweight is clearly a fan of the designer labels, from Louis Vuitton to Gianni Versace which he shows off on Instagram.
And when he is prepping for a fight, he is dressed to the nines in press conferences in customised suits by personal tailor Nav Salimian.
That, again infamously, included a mental health-inspired suit that gained worldwide attention in 2022.
They set him back £500, but what else would the Gypsy King wear if it wasn’t so outlandish or pricey?
Oleksandr Usyk has ramped up the mind games with Tyson Fury by branding his heavyweight rival ‘Belly’ ahead of their proposed undisputed mega-fight.
Usyk, who holds three of the division’s four recognised titles, is edging closer towards a clash with WBC champion Fury, which would crown the first undisputed heavyweight king in over two decades.
Fury’s promoter Frank Warren revealed this week that a draft contract has been sent to the Ukrainian’s team, with early March being targeted as a potential date and Saudi Arabia reportedly leading the race to stage it.
Oleksandr Usyk has ramped up the mind games with Tyson Fury by branding his rival ‘Belly’
Usyk is on the verge of agreeing to an undisputed heavyweight showdown with Fury next
And as they close in on a historic battle for all of the heavyweight marbles, Usyk has taunted Fury by mocking his physique in a post on Twitter this week.
Along with a photo of himself looking lean in swimming gear, Usyk wrote on Tuesday: ‘The Middleweight is here! Where are you Belly? @Tyson_Fury’.
Usyk was sarcastically referencing Fury’s common jibe that he is a ‘pumped up middleweight’, despite winning a heavyweight gold medal at the 2012 Olympics in London and starting his professional career as a cruiserweight.
Fury said when calling out the 35-year-old back in September: ‘I’m a seven-foot, 20 stone behemoth and I will destroy you, middleweight. Find your balls and come see me, b***h.’
Fury and Usyk came face to face after the former’s victory over Dereck Chisora last month
The two heavyweight champions famously came face to face after Fury’s win over Dereck Chisora at Wembley last month, which saw him successfully defend his WBC title with a 10th-round stoppage over his old foe.
After the bout Usyk approached the ring to confront Fury, who shouted at his future opponent: ‘You ugly little man. Lets get it on b****. You may laugh now but I’ll end this lil sucker. I’ll end you. You little sucker. What are you gonna do? You’re gonna do f*** all you little sausage.’
Fury and Usyk are now on the verge of sealing their undisputed battle after the former’s team sent over a draft contract, though Warren insists it needs to be signed off ‘very, very quickly’.
‘We’ve sent them a draft contract, that’s where we’re at,’ the Queensberry chief said on talkSPORT.
Fury successfully defended his WBC title that night after stopping Chisora in the 10th round
He is now poised to meet Usyk, who holds the three other recognised heavyweight titles
‘Listen, it’s gotta be sorted out very, very quickly now because the time is against us.’
While a venue is yet to be decided, Warren went on to reveal the most lucrative option would be pursued, with Saudi Arabia believed to be frontrunners.
When asked where the bout could take place, the Queensberry chief continued: ‘Wherever the most money comes from. Nothing’s in place from anywhere outside the UK.
‘We know what it can generate in the UK, but if it goes elsewhere then that depends on what the numbers are.
‘I know a lot of people complain about it and I agree it should be at Wembley, I’d love to see it there.
‘But Muhammad Ali and George Foreman went and fought in Zaire, then you had the the Thrilla in Manila, you had the big fights in Jamaica.
‘They went where the money was and these guys will do the same thing.’
In May, when Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk fight for the undisputed heavyweight title, there will be one observer perhaps less surprised by whatever unfolds than anyone else in the world.
Manchester cruiserweight Jordan Thompson has worked as a sparring partner for both, and as a consequence not only repeatedly shared the ring with two of the finest fighters of the modern era, but repeatedly watched them both train.
Thompson flew to Kyiv to spar with UsykCredit: Jordan Thompson – Instagram
The heavy-handed Thompson, 30, challenged Jai Opetaia for the IBF cruiserweight title in only his 16th fight. He risked fighting the vastly more experienced champion partly because of his swift progress as a professional, which he recognises owes so much to time spent around Fury and Usyk in Las Vegas, the UK, and Kyiv.
“I got a phone call about sparring Usyk, and I didn’t even think twice,” he told talkSPORT. “I said, ‘Yep, no problem – [it’s] an experience of a lifetime’.
“I was on my own – I didn’t really think about that on my way there. I was staying bang in the middle of Kyiv. The sparring – going into the middle of nowhere; in the countryside; they had three little huts – proper secluded, a real mysterious place. The first spar, we had gone into a little backroom. The ring was tiny. ‘This is going to be fun.’
“The first time I went in for two rounds with him. This was for the [Murat] Gassiev fight [in 2018]. I’m doing my thing, being myself and trying not to get a pasting. I got in some really good rounds with him. He had about four of us there, in and out – a light-heavyweight, cruiserweight, heavyweight, super-heavyweight – so he was getting the rounds in.
“He would do three rounds with the light-heavyweight, three rounds with me, then he’d do three rounds with the heavyweight, and then he’d do three rounds with the super-heavyweight – and then it got on to four rounds each. But then the super-heavyweight – he was actually doing five-minute rounds with him at one point.”
Usyk, then 31, travelled to Moscow – even in the years before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, tensions between the two countries were sufficiently high that the environment would have been beyond hostile – and proceeded to produce the punch-perfect performance that brought him a wide unanimous decision and one of his finest hours.
“He’s a phenomenal boxer,” Thompson continued. “Phenomenal athlete – he definitely lives the life and he goes about his business very seriously. I’m there shadowboxing, warming up with my bands and that, he’s just stood there juggling balls, and then he’s been doing breathing exercises and stuff like that. What he puts on his social media is pretty much how he goes about his business – he’s a bit of a joker, [but] as soon as he gets in the ring he switches on, and he’s not someone to be played with
“Composure – whether it was mental; physical – [he was] a very, very composed individual, and just very intelligent. He knew what I was doing way before I was doing it. A very, very calculated, smart, smart boxer. He’s all about the hit-and-not-get hit; doesn’t really engage in any unnecessary dust-ups; his footwork for a guy that size is special. He’s a special fighter.”
Thompson sparred Fury in Las Vegas and MorecambeCredit: Jordan Thompson – Instagram
Lewis was the last undisputed heavyweight world champion but the division has not seen one since 1999Credit: Getty
If Thompson’s time around Usyk gave him insights into one of the world’s most admired fighters, by sparring Fury ahead of his two victories over Deontay Wilder – the first fight between them was scored a draw – he perhaps learned even more about one of the most revered of all heavyweights while he remained in his prime.
“He’s a special man,” Thompson explained. “If you’re in the camp, he treats you like one of his own. He takes you in. He really did a lot for me as an individual, and as a boxer. We had some good conversations; he gave me some really good advice; he really goes over and above.
“[Las] Vegas was the first camp for the second Wilder fight. Then we sparred – one little camp – when he was supposed to be fighting [Agit] Kabayel, and then the third fight with Wilder. We spent a lot of time up there as well – we were there for about four or five weeks in Morecambe.
“He made sure we had a car in Vegas; he put us up in a real nice spot; when we were in Morecambe he gave us his own car to drive around in. Not the Ferrari unfortunately. He was always checking in; he was always making sure we had enough money for food; he would hang around and give us advice; speak to us about the sparring. He’d even let us train with the coaches.
“To move the way he does – his reactions; his hand speed at that size; his foot speed – it is second to none. That’s why people speak about him and Usyk – they’ve got a lot of similarities. The ring IQ – they’re very smart; very relaxed; very composed; their footwork; they’re primarily hit-and-not-get-hit.”
Fury and Usyk were first scheduled to fight on December 23, until the 35-year-old Fury’s disappointing performance in victory over Francis Ngannou forced one postponement until February 17, and the cut he suffered in sparring forced another, until May.
“Fury can get you to do what he wants you to do – it’s pretty special,” said Thompson, who after an operation on his hands expects to return to the ring later in the summer. “There’s a method to everything, and again – he’s very, very adaptable.
“With Usyk, we have always seen that he’s a phenomenal, phenomenal tactician, and technical boxer. But with Fury, whatever is put in front of him he’ll adapt to it, and he’ll come up with something to get the win.”
In addition, Tyson Fury mentioned a possible altercation with Oleksandr Usyk and Francis Ngannou.
Don’t hold your breath for Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua as the ‘Gypsy King’ has absolutely no interest in the all-British showdown, ruthlessly saying his rival is ‘dead’ in his eyes.
The undefeated WBC heavyweight king stopped Dillian Whyte and Dereck Chisora last year as he looks for an undisputed clash against Oleksandr Usyk, who holds the WBA (super), IBF, WBO and The Ring Magazine world titles.
However, if he fails to land a monstrous bout with the Ukrainian star, then the 34-year-old is eyeing a fight with former UFC champion Francis Ngannou.
Where does ‘AJ’ fit in the picture? Well, Fury has ‘zero’ interest in facing the ex-world heavyweight champion and said he’s ‘dead’ in his eyes.
“I don’t even [want to] go there anymore. Finished. No interest in any AJ questions. Zero. Man’s dead in my eyes,” he said exclusively to SPORTbible.
“There’s no business between me and him to be done. Finished. From 2017 to, however long it’s been, 2022 – trying to make a fight. So, it’s not happening.”
Fury also doubled down on his outrageous hybrid offer to Ngannou, insisting they meet in a cage rather than a boxing ring.
“My offer to Ngannou is on the table. Like I said, if Usyk don’t fight then I’ll be looking to make the Ngannou fight,” he added.
“I’m going to do a two-fight deal in a boxing ring and in the cage. I’ve never asked him to fight in the boxing ring. I always said the cage. The deal was cage, four-ounce gloves – let’s get it on.
“In a boxing ring it would be a pointless contest. It’d be like me fighting someone at the local gym – bodybuilding gym. But in a cage with four once gloves on, anything can happen.”
Of course, Ngannou is free to fight Fury, having left the UFC following a protracted contract dispute.
The 36-year-old, who left the promotion as UFC heavyweight king, has pursued a fight against Fury, Joshua as well as Deontay Wilder.
And Fury is keen to face the French-Cameroonian, but maintains that he isn’t looking to face him under MMA rules.
“Don’t know I’ve never seen the guy box,” he said when asked about Ngannou’s stand-up skills. “He’s been a UFC champion so you never know. No interest in actually fighting in MMA. I’m a stand-up fighter so wrestling around the floor is not what I’m into.”
On the threat Usyk provides in the heavyweight division, Fury continued: “I think he’s a tough contest for anybody. All these so-called contenders and people, he’s tough for them. But he’s not tough for me. Because I am the hardest.”
Asked to choose his next opponent between Usyk and Ngannou, he replied in typical Fury fashion.
“Not really bothered. Either one. Because I’ll smash them up easily,” he said. “Why not just have like a tag team match, where they can tag each other in and out during 12 rounds. F**k it! Make it 15, five-minute rounds, with 30 seconds rest and then they can tag each other in and out right the way through.”
A SHOCK proposal to increase the number of judges scoring Tyson Fury’s showdown with Oleksandr Usyk has been rejected.
WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman made a stunning call for the number of ringside officials to be increased from three to SIX earlier this year.
Tyson Fury faces Oleksandr Usyk for all the heavyweight marbles on May 18Credit: EPA
WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman wanted to implement six judges for the historic showdownCredit: REUTERS
Bob Arum has revealed the proposal has been rejectedCredit: Getty
The head-honcho of the Mexican sanctioning body demanded the addition of more judges to ensure next month’s undisputed title fight isn’t ruined by a dodgy scorecard.
And he even went as far as to issue an “emergency petition” to all those involved.
But the proposal has been rejected due to fears over potential teething problems marring the biggest heavyweight fight in nearly 25 years.
Fury’s co-promoter Bob Arum told Boxing Scene: “You don’t put in something like that for the first time dealing with a major fight from the standpoint of visibility and importance.
“Maybe six judges are better than three. I doubt that, but maybe.
“Nobody knows because it hasn’t been done.
“But at least you experiment with that with fights that are not as prominent.”
Arum, 92, isn’t completely against the idea but believes it should be trialled out in a fight of significantly less magnitude.
He said: “With all due respect to my friend Mauricio – who’s a really good guy.
“[He] loves the sport of boxing and has done a great job with the WBC – I wouldn’t do it for this fight.
“I don’t believe the judging becomes better because you have six judges rather than three.”
The winner of Fury vs Usyk will be crowned the first undisputed heavyweight champion in nearly 25 years, a title the former believes he’ll win with ease.
He said: “If I didn’t train a day for this fight and was 25 stone and drank 15 pints of Peroni the night before, I would still beat him the next day.
“What would he do, just jib and jab me?
“I would need at least 15 pints of Peroni for a proper ding dong.”
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