Loughborough Sports Events 2024: Dates, Itinerary & Tickets Price

Witness a thrilling charity match between DC Schoolboys’ and Albert Village FC All Stars in Loughborough on July 7, 2024, at Quorn FC. This event brings together 30 lads aged 16 to 30+ for a noble cause. The match aims to raise funds for the mental health charity 'Mind.' Sports enthusiasts understand the positive impact of sports on mental well-being. Dylan Cross and Ben Woolf have organized this event to showcase the power of sports in improving mental health. Join us for a day filled with laughter and positivity as you watch these talented players compete. Your ticket purchase of £6.13 will contribute to this meaningful cause. Let's support mental health awareness and well-being together by attending this charity football match.

The highly anticipated KitKing Trophy Final is set to take place on the 16th of March in Loughborough. This thrilling basketball showdown will see the Derby Trailblazers and Bradford Dragons battling it out for a chance to claim the silverware. The action kicks off at 19:00 in the prestigious Netball & Badminton Centre, located on the Loughborough University campus. Get ready to witness an intense clash of skills and tactics as these two teams go head to head. Doors to the event will open at 18:00, allowing fans to soak in the atmosphere and find their seats before the tip-off. Various ticket options are available to cater to different preferences. For the ultimate courtside experience, consider the Courtside tickets priced at £33.48. Adult tickets are available for £16, while Concession tickets for OAPs and students are priced at £12. Children can enjoy the thrill of the game for just £8. Make sure to secure your tickets early to avoid disappointment, as this event promises to be a sell-out. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to witness the KitKing Trophy Final live and be a part of basketball history. Join us for an unforgettable evening filled with excitement and passion. Book your tickets now and get ready to cheer on your favorite team in this thrilling championship clash.

The highly anticipated matchup between the Loughborough Riders Men's basketball team and the Essex Rebels is set to take place on the 16th of March at the Netball & Badminton Centre in Loughborough University. This thrilling game is part of the NBL League and is expected to attract a large crowd of basketball enthusiasts. Tip-off is scheduled for 16:00, and the doors to the Netball Centre building will open at 15:30. It is advised to arrive early as seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. The venue, located at Epinal Way, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, offers an ideal setting for an exciting basketball showdown. Ticket prices for this event are as follows: Adult tickets are priced at £8, while Child and Student tickets (valid ID needed) are available for £5. With such affordable prices, this is an opportunity that fans should not miss. The Loughborough Riders v Essex Rebels game promises to be an enthralling display of skill and passion, showcasing the best of men's basketball in the NBL League. Be sure to mark your calendars and secure your tickets for this exhilarating event. Join us at the Netball & Badminton Centre on the 16th of March to witness the intense competition between these two formidable teams.

The highly anticipated sports event, The Blaze v Thunder, is set to take place on May 26, 2024, at the renowned Haslegrave Ground in Loughborough, UK. Spectators can expect an electrifying showdown between these two powerhouse teams in the heart of the city. The atmosphere at the venue is sure to be buzzing with excitement as fans gather to witness the clash of these titans. The Blaze and Thunder will be giving it their all on the field, showcasing their skills and determination to emerge victorious. Sports enthusiasts from near and far are encouraged to come and support their favorite team in this thrilling competition. Make sure to mark your calendars for this epic event that promises to be a riveting display of athleticism and sportsmanship. Don't miss out on this chance to experience the thrill of The Blaze v Thunder live in action!

Join us for a day of exciting development activities followed by an exhilarating Riders basketball game! The Development Days are packed with opportunities for growth and improvement. Each session includes a 90-minute coaching session led by experienced professionals. Afterward, you can enjoy a delicious lunch consisting of a choice of sandwiches (Turkey, Ham, Tuna Mayo, or Cheese), a snack, fresh fruit, and a refreshing bottle of water. The Development Days will be held at the Netball & Badminton Centre, located in Loughborough University at Epinal Way, Loughborough, LE11 3TU. This is the perfect opportunity to enhance your skills and knowledge while enjoying the thrilling atmosphere of a Riders basketball game. Here are the upcoming dates for the Development Days: - 27th January, from 3:30 pm to 5:00 pm on court, followed by the D1 Men vs TVC game at 6:00 pm. - 25th February, from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm on court, followed by the D1 Men vs Newcastle University game at 3:00 pm. - 2nd March, from 3:30 pm to 5:00 pm on court, followed by the WBBL vs Oaklands Wolves game at 6:00 pm. - 30th March, from 3:30 pm to 5:00 pm on court, followed by the D1 Men vs London Elite game at 6:00 pm. - 27th April, from 3:30 pm to 5:00 pm on court, followed by the WBBL vs Sheffield Hatters game at 6:00 pm. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to develop your skills and witness thrilling basketball action. Get your tickets now for only £13.39. Join us for the Development Days in Loughborough and take your game to new heights.

Leicester Riders Women's basketball team will be taking on the London Lions in an exciting match on 3rd February at Loughborough University. The game will be held at the Netball Centre building on the Loughborough University campus, with tip-off set for 19:00. Doors will open at 18:30, so be sure to arrive early to secure your spot. Ticket prices for this thrilling match are £8 for adults and £5 for children and students with valid ID. Please note that seating is not reserved and will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. This event promises to be a thrilling display of athleticism and sportsmanship, and we invite you to come and witness it firsthand. Don't miss out on the chance to support your favorite team and enjoy a night of basketball action. Join us at Loughborough University on 3rd February for this highly anticipated match between Leicester Riders Women and London Lions.

Leicester Riders Women's basketball team is gearing up to face off against Durham Palatinates in a highly anticipated match on 11th February. This thrilling Women's British Basketball League game will take place at Loughborough University's Netball Centre building. Doors will open at 12:30, and the game will commence at 13:00. Admission is open to all, and there are no reserved seats, so it's a first-come, first-served basis. To attend this exciting event, you can purchase tickets at the entrance. Prices are as follows: Adults for £8, Children for £5, and Students for £2 (valid ID required). Leicester Riders Women's basketball team looks forward to welcoming sports enthusiasts to this momentous occasion. Make sure to mark your calendars and join us at Loughborough University for an exhilarating basketball showdown between Leicester Riders Women and Durham Palatinates. Don't miss out on the action-packed event!

Loughborough Riders Men's basketball team will be taking on the Reading Rockets in an exciting NBL League match on 11th February. The game will be held at the Netball & Badminton Centre, located at Loughborough University in Loughborough. The match is scheduled to start at 18:00, but doors will open at 17:30, so make sure to arrive early. This is a first come, first serve event, so there is no reserved seating. The ticket prices are as follows: £8 for adults and £5 for children and students with a valid student ID. Join us for an action-packed evening of basketball as these two talented teams battle it out on the court. Loughborough Riders are known for their impressive skills and teamwork, while the Reading Rockets have a strong reputation in the league. This is a not-to-be-missed opportunity for basketball fans to witness some thrilling hoops action. Make sure to mark your calendars for 11th February and head to Loughborough University to catch the Loughborough Riders Men's basketball team go head-to-head with the Reading Rockets. Get ready to cheer on your favorite team and experience the excitement of live basketball in a state-of-the-art venue. Don't miss out on this electrifying sports event!

On 17th February, the Loughborough Riders Men's basketball team will go head-to-head with the City of Birmingham Rockets in the NBL League. This exciting match will take place at Loughborough University's Netball & Badminton Centre, located at Epinal Way, Loughborough, LE11 3TU. The game is scheduled to start at 18:00, but doors will open at 17:30, so make sure to arrive early to secure your spot. Ticket prices for this event are as follows: £8 for adults and £5 for children and students (valid ID required). Please note that seating is not reserved, so it operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Don't miss out on this thrilling basketball showdown. We look forward to welcoming you to Loughborough University for an unforgettable evening of sporting action.

Loughborough Basketball is excited to announce the upcoming February Half Term Basketball Camp, a thrilling and engaging experience for children aged 8-16 years old. Taking place from February 19th to February 23rd, this camp offers a fantastic opportunity for young basketball enthusiasts to hone their skills and have fun during their break from school. The camp will be held at the New Victory Hall, conveniently located within the Holywell Sports Complex in Loughborough. With a range of activities planned, participants will have the chance to learn from experienced coaches and improve their basketball abilities, regardless of their current skill level. From beginners to intermediate players, everyone is welcome to join in the excitement and camaraderie. The camp schedule is as follows: - Monday 19th Feb: 10am - 4pm - Tuesday 20th Feb: 10am - 4pm - Wednesday 21st Feb: No camp - Thursday 22nd Feb: 10am - 4pm - Friday 23rd Feb: 10am - 3pm Tickets for the February Half Term Basketball Camp range from £22.32 to £66.96, making it an accessible and affordable experience for all. For any further details or clarifications, please email tegan@riders.basketball. Join us at the camp and discover the joy and excitement of basketball at Loughborough Basketball's February Half Term Camp.

Are you ready to witness the ultimate clash of power, skill, and determination? Brace yourselves for the showdown between Loughborough Lightning and Team Bath Netball! This electrifying sports event is set to take place on February 24, 2024, at the iconic Sir David Wallace Arena in the heart of Loughborough. Nestled in the glorious city of Loughborough, this venue is the perfect stage for these two titans of the netball world to battle it out. The Sir David Wallace Arena, located at Towers Way, Loughborough LE11 3TU, UK, is renowned for its world-class facilities and vibrant atmosphere. As the clock ticks down to the event, anticipation is building, and excitement is in the air. Will Loughborough Lightning strike with lightning speed and precision? Or will Team Bath Netball rise to the occasion and claim victory? Get ready to witness jaw-dropping plays, nail-biting moments, and unforgettable memories. Mark your calendars and secure your seats for the Loughborough Lightning v Team Bath Netball, the sporting event of the year!

On 25th February, the Loughborough Riders Men's basketball team will face off against Newcastle University in the NBL League. This exciting match will take place at Loughborough University's Netball & Badminton Centre. The tip-off is scheduled for 15:00, so be sure to arrive early as doors will open at 14:30. Don't miss this thrilling basketball showdown between two top teams. Ticket prices for this event are as follows: £8 for adults and £5 for children and students (valid ID required). Please note that there is no reserved seating, so it will be first come, first served. Join us at Loughborough University for an afternoon of high-intensity basketball action. We look forward to seeing you there!

Join us for an exciting day of development at the Netball & Badminton Centre in Loughborough University. Our Development Days offer a unique opportunity to enhance your skills and knowledge in basketball. Each session includes a 90-minute coaching session led by experienced trainers. After the coaching session, you will have the chance to witness thrilling basketball action at the Riders game. The day will begin with a 90-minute coaching session, where you will receive expert guidance and training. Following the session, you can refuel with a delicious lunch, which includes a choice of sandwiches (Turkey, Ham, Tuna Mayo, or Cheese), a snack, fruit, and a refreshing bottle of water. Mark your calendars for the upcoming Development Days: - 27th January from 3.30pm to 5pm on the court, followed by the D1 men vs. TVC game at 6pm. - 25th February from 12.30pm to 2pm on the court, followed by the D1 men vs. Newcastle University game at 3pm. - 2nd March from 3.30pm to 5pm on the court, followed by the WBBL vs. Oaklands Wolves game at 6pm. - 30th March from 3.30pm to 5pm on the court, followed by the D1 men vs. London Elite game at 6pm. - 27th April from 3.30pm to 5pm on the court, followed by the WBBL vs. Sheffield Hatters game at 6pm. Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to improve your basketball skills and enjoy an exciting Riders game. Secure your spot now for just £13.39!

Loughborough Basketball presents the Easter Basketball Camp, a thrilling and engaging experience for children aged 8-16 years old. This camp provides a fantastic opportunity for the next generation of basketball enthusiasts to improve their skills and have a blast during the Easter break. The camp will be held at the New Victory Hall, located at the Holywell Sports Complex in Loughborough. With two weeks of action-packed fun, the camp will take place from March 25th to April 5th, offering sessions from Monday to Friday, starting at 10am and concluding at 4pm. Whether your child is a beginner or an intermediate player, they will be warmly welcomed and supported by our experienced coaches. Our aim is to create a inclusive environment where participants can develop their basketball prowess and make lasting memories. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity! For any inquiries or clarifications, please reach out to tegan@riders.basketball.

Loughborough Lightning will clash against Cardiff Dragons at the prestigious Sir David Wallace Arena in Loughborough on April 5, 2024. This highly anticipated sports event promises to be a thrilling showdown between two powerhouse teams in the sports world. The clash between Loughborough Lightning and Cardiff Dragons is expected to draw in a massive crowd of sports enthusiasts and fans. The Sir David Wallace Arena, located at Towers Way in Loughborough, is gearing up to host this epic battle on the court. Spectators can look forward to witnessing top-tier athleticism and skill as these two teams go head-to-head in a display of sportsmanship and competitive spirit. Make sure not to miss out on this electrifying matchup between Loughborough Lightning and Cardiff Dragons, as it is set to be a spectacle that will keep fans on the edge of their seats throughout the game.

On the 7th of April, prepare to witness an intense basketball match between the Loughborough Riders and the Worthing Thunder at the prestigious Loughborough University. This highly-anticipated event will take place at the Netball & Badminton Centre on the Loughborough University campus. The match will commence at 18:00, so make sure to arrive early, as doors will open at 17:30. Please note that seating is on a first-come, first-served basis, with no reserved seats available. The Loughborough Riders Men’s basketball team will showcase their skills and compete against the formidable Worthing Thunder in the NBL League. This thrilling encounter promises to be a captivating display of athleticism and sportsmanship. Ticket prices for this exhilarating matchup are as follows: - Adult: £8 - Children & Students (valid student ID required): £5 Don't miss out on this remarkable sporting event in Loughborough. Join us at Loughborough University on the 7th of April and be a part of the action. Get ready to cheer for your favorite team and witness an unforgettable basketball experience. Secure your tickets now and be prepared to be amazed!

Leicester Riders Women's basketball team will be facing off against the Caledonia Gladiators at Loughborough University in the Women's British Basketball League. The highly anticipated game is scheduled to take place on the 14th of April at the Netball Centre building on the Loughborough University campus. Tip-off is set for 18:00, so make sure to arrive early as doors open at 17:30. This is a fantastic opportunity to witness top-level women's basketball and support your favorite team. Ticket prices for the event are as follows: Adult tickets are priced at £8, Children at £5, and Students at £2 (valid ID required). Please note that seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis, so be sure to secure your spot. The Netball & Badminton Centre at Loughborough University, located at Epinal Way, Loughborough, LE11 3TU will be hosting the event. Don't miss out on this thrilling basketball match and mark your calendars for the 14th of April. Get ready for an exciting evening of high-quality sports entertainment!

Leicester Riders Women's basketball team will be facing off against the Sheffield Hatters in a highly anticipated match in the Women's British Basketball League. The event will be held at the prestigious Loughborough University in the Netball Centre building on the 27th of April. Tip-off is scheduled for 18:00, so make sure to arrive early as doors will open at 17:30. The game promises to be a thrilling display of skill and competition. Ticket prices for this exciting event are as follows: £8 for adults, £5 for children, and only £2 for students (valid ID needed). It's important to note that there is no reserved seating, so it's a first-come, first-served basis. Experience the adrenaline and excitement of women's basketball as two of the top teams in the league clash in Loughborough. Cheer on your favorite team and witness incredible athleticism at its finest. Don't miss out on this unforgettable event. Mark your calendars for the 27th of April and join us at Loughborough University for an evening of top-notch basketball action. Make sure to secure your tickets early to avoid disappointment. To purchase your tickets, visit our website or contact our ticketing office. We can't wait to see you there!

Experience the thrill of basketball at the May Half Term Basketball Camp in Loughborough. This exciting camp is tailored for children aged 8-16 years old, catering to all skill levels from beginners to intermediates. Taking place at the New Victory Hall within the Holywell Sports Complex from May 27th to May 31st, the camp offers a fun-filled schedule from 10am to 4pm each day, except for Wednesday. Whether your child is looking to hone their basketball skills or simply enjoy the sport, this camp provides a fantastic opportunity for growth and development. For inquiries or further information, reach out to tegan@riders.basketball. Secure your spot now for an unforgettable basketball experience during the May Half Term.

Glow-Beatz 03/01/24 (Pre-book) is an all-inclusive group exercise event that promises to be simple and fun for everyone. Led by certified Beatz instructors, this group fitness class is designed to provide a enjoyable workout experience. Taking place at the Greenfields Sports and Social Club in Loughborough, the event will be held on Wednesday at 7pm. To join the event, participants can simply arrive at the venue and pay an entry fee of £6 (cash, card, and PayPal accepted). The event offers a great opportunity to get active and have a good time on the dance floor. Mark your calendars and make sure to attend Glow-Beatz 03/01/24 (Pre-book) for an energizing and inclusive exercise session. With its welcoming atmosphere and engaging instructors, this event is not to be missed. Join the group and experience the benefits of Beatz fitness firsthand.

Loughborough Riders Men's basketball will be going head to head against Thames Valley Cavaliers in the NBL League at Loughborough University. This exciting match will take place on the 27th of January at the Netball Centre building on the Loughborough University campus. Tip-off is scheduled for 18:00, but doors will open at 17:30, so make sure to arrive early to secure your spot. The event promises to be a thrilling display of skill and athleticism, and we invite you to be a part of the action. Ticket prices for adults are £8, while children and students with valid student ID can enjoy a discounted rate of £5. Please note that seating is not reserved, so it will be first come, first served. Don't miss out on this exciting basketball showdown between Loughborough Riders and Thames Valley Cavaliers. Join us at Loughborough University for an unforgettable evening of basketball.

IAS Visiting Fellow Dr Daniel Boateng will be presenting a seminar on the findings of their research at the Centre for Lifestyle Medicine and Behaviour (CLiMB). This collaborative study, conducted in various regions of Ghana, aims to address the issue of physical inactivity in the country. In 2022, it was found that 19% of adult males and 25% of adult females in Ghana were physically inactive. However, the efforts to tackle this problem have not been given enough priority. The study will use a survey to assess the physical activities available to Ghanaians and evaluate their understanding, attitudes, and behavioral patterns towards physical activity. Approximately 1000 adults residing in selected study sites in Ghana will be invited to participate, utilizing a multistage sampling design. The results of this study will provide valuable information for implementing future physical activity interventions not only in Ghana but also in other African countries. Join Dr Daniel Boateng's seminar on "Being active in Ghana: A CLiMB Ghana study" at International House, Loughborough University on February 28, 2024. This event is free of charge. Lunch will be served after the seminar.

To register attendance at GB Women's Flag Camp #1, participants are required to make a payment using the provided link. It is important to note that the link will only be active until 29/02/24, allowing for payment to be made for the camp scheduled from 17/02/24 to 18/02/24. Please refrain from visiting the location on 29/02/24. This camp, named GB Women's Flag Camp #1, will take place in Quorn at the Loughborough Grammar School Quorn Playing Fields. The address for the venue is 43 Woodhouse Road, Quorn, LE12 8AJ. The event is scheduled for 2024-02-29, and the ticket price is £20.

Leicester Riders Women's basketball team is gearing up to face off against Oaklands Wolves at Loughborough University in the Women's British Basketball League. This exciting match will take place on the 2nd of March at the Netball & Badminton Centre on the Loughborough University campus. The tip-off is scheduled for 18:00, so make sure to arrive early as doors will open at 17:30. Be part of the action as these two teams battle it out on the court. The Leicester Riders Women's team is known for their fierce competitiveness, while the Oaklands Wolves are determined to secure a victory. It's set to be an intense and thrilling game that you won't want to miss. Ticket prices for this event are as follows: £8 for adults and £5 for children and students (valid ID is required). Please note that seating is not reserved, so it's first come, first serve. Secure your spot in the stands and witness the excitement unfold. Join us at Loughborough University for an unforgettable evening of women's basketball. Support your favorite team and experience the thrill of the Women's British Basketball League firsthand. Get your tickets now and be a part of the action on the 2nd of March.

Experience a thrilling day of skill-building at Development Days in Loughborough. This event offers a 90-minute coaching session, a delightful lunch featuring a choice of Turkey, Ham, Tuna Mayo, or Cheese sandwich, along with a snack, fruit, and a refreshing bottle of water. After the development session, attendees will receive a ticket to witness an exciting Riders basketball game. The schedule for upcoming Development Days is as follows: on 27th January, from 3.30 pm to 5 pm, the event will be followed by D1 men vs TVC at 6 pm; on 25th February, from 12.30 pm to 2 pm, followed by D1 men vs Newcastle University at 3 pm; on 2nd March, from 3.30 pm to 5 pm, followed by WBBL vs Oaklands Wolves at 6 pm; on 30th March, from 3.30 pm to 5 pm, followed by D1 men vs London Elite at 6 pm; and on 27th April, from 3.30 pm to 5 pm, followed by WBBL vs Sheffield Hatters at 6 pm. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your skills and enjoy a thrilling basketball game!

The highly anticipated basketball match between Loughborough Riders and London Elite is set to take place on 30th March at the Netball & Badminton Centre, located in Loughborough University. This thrilling showdown in the NBL League promises an evening of intense competition and skillful play. The game will commence at 18:00, and doors will open at 17:30, allowing spectators to find their seats and soak up the atmosphere before tip-off. With no reserved seating, it's advisable to arrive early to secure the best vantage point. Ticket prices are £8 for adults and £5 for children and students (valid ID required). This event is not to be missed by basketball enthusiasts, as it showcases the talents of these two formidable teams. The Loughborough Riders Men's basketball team will undoubtedly bring their A-game to the court as they face off against the formidable London Elite. Join us at Loughborough University's Netball & Badminton Centre for an unforgettable evening of sporting excellence.

The highly anticipated basketball match between Loughborough Riders and Bradford Dragons is set to take place on the 31st of March at Loughborough University's Netball & Badminton Centre. This thrilling clash will see the two teams battle it out in the NBL League, providing an exciting spectacle for basketball fans in Loughborough. Starting at 18:00, the match promises to be an intense and action-packed affair. The doors to the Netball Centre will open at 17:30, allowing spectators to find their seats and soak up the electric atmosphere before tip-off. It's worth noting that seating is on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to arrive early to secure the best view. Ticket prices for this event are as follows: Adults can enjoy the game for £8, while children and students (with valid student ID) can attend for just £5. It's an excellent opportunity to witness high-quality basketball and support these talented athletes on their quest for victory. Don't miss out on this fantastic sporting event in Loughborough. Mark the 31st of March on your calendar and make your way to Loughborough University's Netball & Badminton Centre for an evening of thrilling basketball action. Let's come together as a community and show our support for the Loughborough Riders as they take on the Bradford Dragons. Secure your tickets now and be a part of the excitement!

Experience a day of growth and excitement at Development Days in Loughborough. Attendees will enjoy a 90-minute coaching session, a delicious lunch featuring a variety of sandwich options, snacks, fruit, and a refreshing bottle of water. Following the development activities, immerse yourself in the thrill of a Riders basketball game. Mark your calendars for upcoming dates: January 27th, February 25th, March 2nd, March 30th, and April 27th. Each session will be held at the Netball & Badminton Centre at Loughborough University. The event on April 27th will culminate with a game between the WBBL team and Sheffield Hatters. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your skills and enjoy an exciting basketball game. Tickets are priced at £13.39.

Get ready for an electrifying showdown as Loughborough Lightning takes on Manchester Thunder at the Sir David Wallace Arena on May 4, 2024. This highly anticipated sports event promises to be a thrilling display of skill and determination as these two powerhouses go head-to-head on the court. Fans can expect top-tier athleticism and fierce competition as the teams battle it out for victory. The Sir David Wallace Arena, located at Towers Way, Loughborough LE11 3TU, UK, will be buzzing with excitement as supporters cheer on their favorites. So mark your calendars and make sure not to miss this epic clash between Loughborough Lightning and Manchester Thunder. It's bound to be a game for the ages that you won't want to miss!

Loughborough Lightning will be facing off against Strathclyde Sirens in an electrifying showdown at the Sir David Wallace Arena in Loughborough on May 24, 2024. This highly anticipated event is set to showcase top-tier competition between these two powerhouse teams. Sports enthusiasts and fans alike will have the opportunity to witness these skilled athletes in action, as they battle it out on the court for glory. The Sir David Wallace Arena, located at Towers Way, Loughborough LE11 3TU, UK, will be buzzing with excitement as both teams bring their A-game. Be sure to mark your calendars for this epic clash between Loughborough Lightning and Strathclyde Sirens, as it promises to be a thrilling display of athleticism and sportsmanship. Don't miss out on the chance to experience the intensity and passion of this must-see matchup between these formidable opponents.