Don King Faces $3 Billion Lawsuit Over Failed 'Rumble in the Jungle 2'

Legendary boxing promoter Don King is at the center of a $3 billion lawsuit following the collapse of plans to stage a historic "Rumble in the Jungle 2" event in Africa. The event was intended to commemorate the iconic 1974 heavyweight bout between Muhammad Ali and George Foreman in Kinshasa, Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo).

The lawsuit was filed by Cecil Miller, CEO of BYD Sports, in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. Miller accuses King of fraud, defamation, and breach of contract, claiming the veteran promoter abruptly canceled the event after extensive preparations had been made.

The proposed event aimed to blend sports and entertainment, featuring heavyweight bouts alongside performances from global stars such as Alicia Keys and John Legend—however, the ambitious plans unraveled amid allegations of mismanagement and broken agreements.

King, now 93, has not yet issued a public statement regarding the lawsuit. This legal battle marks another chapter in the controversial career of one of boxing's most polarizing figures.

The original "Rumble in the Jungle" remains one of boxing's most celebrated events, remembered for Ali's stunning victory over Foreman. The failed sequel serves as a stark reminder of the challenges in recreating the magic of the past.