Yahoo Finance Muhammad Ali’s “Rumble in the Jungle” fight to be recreated at “immersive theatre” in London
A “sporting time machine” business specialising in immersive theatre experiences based on iconic clashes has raised £2 million for a new London venue recreating the “Rumble in the Jungle” boxing match.
The heayweight World Championship fight between Muhammad Ali and George Foreman in Zaire in 1974 is one of the most famous sporting encounters of the 20th century.
The attraction is a collaboration between sports entertainment company Rematch and Authentic Brands Group (ABG), which owns Muhammad Ali Enterprises in partnership with Lonnie Ali as trustee of the Muhammad Ali Family Trust (MAFT).
It will open in early 2023. The venue has not yet been announced but Rematch’s previous venture Wimbledon Rematch1980 recreating the epic men’s Wimbledon final between John McEnroe and Bjorn Borg was based as Wembley Park’s Troubadour theatre for a short run in June 2019.
Rematch describes itself as “delivering a hybrid of festival, immersive theatre, and audio-visual experience, alongside immaculate and precisely programmed food, music and fashion elements that further tell the story of the eras in which these iconic events took place.”
Private investor backers of Rumble in the Jungle Rematch’ including film producer and advertising guru and Arsenal’s commercial director Juliet Slot.
Richard Ayers, Founder of Rematch, said: “Sport has the power to inspire and unite people from all over the world and from different cultural backgrounds. Rumble in the Jungle and Muhammad Ali transcend national and cultural boundaries which is why, following the success of Wimbledon Rematch 1980, we are thrilled to be reimagining one of the greatest moments in sporting history.
“From Ali’s trash-talking to his pre match speech to the music and mood of Zaire in 1974, backed by an incredible expert team, who are excited to bring this story to life in a unique immersive experience.”
Mr Beattie said: “Muhammad Ali is my lifelong hero, and I was even lucky enough to have met him and worked with him on several occasions. I have an extensive collection of Muhammad Ali memorabilia, which we plan to incorporate into Rumble in the Jungle Rematch, to help magically transport us all back in time to this remarkable historical event.”
