The hip hop tandem are set to executive produce 40 DAYS: JOSHUA-RUIZ, a look at the upcoming world heavyweight title fight.
Meek Mill and Roc Nation are following the footsteps of Lebron James and Maverick Carter.
The Philly emcee and the Roc will executive produce 40 DAYS: JOSHUA-RUIZ, a look at the upcoming world heavyweight title fight between Anthony Joshua and Andy Ruiz Jr.
The 40 DAYS documentary title is derived from the grueling preparation for a prizefight that requires roughly eight weeks of intense training.
The matchup marks boxing sensation Anthony Joshua’s U.S. debut after years of selling out stadiums in the U.K.
It also tells the story of Ruiz Jr., who got the shot to possibly become the first Mexican heavyweight champion. The fight takes place at Madison Square Garden and streams live on DAZN on Saturday, June 1.
“DAZN has created a program that explores a fighter’s heart and soul,” stated Meek Mill in a press release. “They tell the story of what makes a true champion. I love being part of a project that tells of their grit, sacrifices and dedication outside the gym. It’s those things that show true character and should be lauded just as much as the knockouts in the ring.”
The multi-part series will premiere exclusively on Meek Mill’s YouTube channel. Beginning May 21, episodes will air each Tuesday and Thursday in the two weeks leading up to the fight. A special final edition of 40 DAYS will premiere on NBC Sports Network and a collection of popular regional sports networks prior to the June 1 showdown.
“The purpose of 40 DAYS is to pair globally famous boxers with compelling storytellers to give fight fans an original look at the eight weeks leading up to a fight,” says Jamie Horowitz, EVP Content, DAZN North America. “It’s a series which is meant to let creative people be creative. We are excited to have Meek Mill tell the story of Anthony Joshua’s first fight in America through his unique lens.”
Joshua (22-0, 21 KOs) will make his much-anticipated United States debut when he defends his IBF, WBA, WBO and IBO World Heavyweight titles against Ruiz Jr. (32-1, 21 KOs). The fight marks Joshua’s eighth World Championship fight while it marks the second time that Ruiz will get a shot to become the first World Heavyweight Champion of Mexican descent.
Both fighters, at 29 years old, are in the primes of their careers and look to flash their knockout power and make a statement under the bright lights in New York City.
DAZN and Joshua’s promoter, Matchroom Boxing USA President Eddie Hearn, will also serve as producers on the series along with Patrick Reardon of Roc Nation.
