RIYADH — Saudi Arabia’s first professional boxer, Ziyad "Zizo" Almaayouf (6-0-1, 1 KO), is set to make his highly anticipated return to the ring on February 22 at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh.

The fight is part of "The Last Crescendo," a landmark event during Riyadh Season that includes the historic light heavyweight unification rematch between Dmitry Bivol (22-0, 11 KOs) and Artur Beterbiev (19-0, 19 KOs).

The 24-year-old Almaayouf, a trailblazer for Middle Eastern boxing, has steadily built his career since turning professional in 2022, emerging as a lightweight contender and a symbol of Saudi Arabia's growing influence in global boxing.

“This isn’t just about my career – it’s about proving Saudi Arabia belongs at boxing’s highest level,” Almaayouf said at the event's London press conference, hosted by Saudi General Entertainment Authority Chairman Turki Alalshikh.

Almaayouf has been training under Hall of Fame coach James "Buddy" McGirt, who highlighted the fighter’s natural talents, including speed, ring IQ, and a developing killer instinct. — SG