KSI will return to the boxing ring after a near-three-year absence by facing Alex Wassabi in London later this summer.
The YouTube star has been focusing more on his chart-topping rap career than his boxing of late, releasing two major-selling albums since his last fight. He has yet to lose in his three bouts, including two thrillers with Logan Paul after a vicious stoppage of Joe Weller in his February 2018 debut.
And he is back in action against the plucky American Wassabi, who just made his fighting bow against the Brit's younger brother Deji in March. The pair have had a long-standing rivalry dating back to KSI's early boxing outings, which only heated up when Wassabi defeated Deji at the OVO Arena Wembley earlier this year.
The event will also feature a host of major social media celebrities, including the return of Deji in his fourth effort at securing a boxing victory. He faces American Yusef 'Fousey' Erakat in a featured bout, while rapper Blueface will take on Faze Clan co-owner Thomas 'Temperrr' Oliveira.
Here's all you need to know about the massive YouTube boxing event...
When is KSI vs Alex Wassabi?
The return of KSI to boxing will take place on August 27 at The O2 arena in London. KSI has competed as a professional before, while Wassabi's win over Deji was a sub-novice amateur bout.
It is expected that the pair will fight without headgear, likely in a fight that if not professional, will closely resemble such. It remains to be seen what rules will be imposed on other fights.
What time will KSI vs Alex Wassabi start in the UK?
The event is taking place in the UK, which is great news for KSI fans who had to stay up late to watch his rematch with Paul. The main event ring walks will likely take place around 9.30pm or 10pm, although no running order has been confirmed as yet.
It is expected that there will be five or six main card fights, with a prelim fight or two as well, meaning around eight bouts. Rules will be made clear at a later date.
How to watch via TV and live stream
The fight will be broadcast around the world on DAZN, but will be a pay-per-view event for fans in the UK, America and Canada. The broadcaster has yet to debut their PPV offering in the UK since launching in December 2020, but began rolling it out in America back in May for Canelo Alvarez vs Dmitry Bivol.
"DAZN’s mission is to deliver the best schedule in boxing for the best price, but also to reach new audiences and the next generation of fight fans. Partnering with the platforms of the biggest stars in entertainment will only help us do that," said Joseph Markowski, EVP at DAZN Group.
"We see this partnership as a major growth opportunity for our business. In partnering with KSI, with whom we have previously achieved record-breaking success, we will build a long-term presence as the home of a new, emerging sports category. Tune in on 27 August for an incredible night that will showcase competitive pro matchups featuring the biggest crossover names alongside DAZN’s best-in-class production capabilities."
Who do you think wins the grudge fight; KSI or Alex Wassabi? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below!
KSI vs Alex Wassabi fight card
Main Event: KSI vs Alex Wassabi
Faze Temperrr vs Blueface
Deji vs Fousey
King Kenny vs FaZe Sensei
Deen the Great vs Evil Hero
Salt Papi vs Andy Warski
Sam Hyde vs THMPSN
Quotes corner
KSI: “I am back, after almost 3 years to take charge once again. First on the list is Alex Wassabi, who I have laughed at many times on my YouTube channel. The one who believes that he will destroy me in the weight of him. The one who defeated my brother. I am here to get revenge for him and to show the world why I am a powerhouse to be reckoned with."
Alex Wassabi: "If you come anywhere close to entering my weight class, I will humble you. I guarantee that your little brother, being the good man that he is, will be there to pick up the pieces."
