Cardiff International Arena

The Utilita Arena Cardiff, opened on September 9, 1993, by Shirley Bassey and officially inaugurated by Queen Elizabeth II on October 14, 1993, has served as Wales' premier indoor venue. It has a capacity of 7,500 (standing) or 5,000 (seated).

The venue has undergone several name changes due to sponsorship agreements: originally Cardiff International Arena, then Motorpoint Arena Cardiff (2011-2022), briefly reverting to CIA before becoming Utilita Arena Cardiff in August 2023.

The facility has played a pivotal role in promoting Welsh boxing, hosting significant events that have showcased the talent of local fighters. Joe Calzaghe, a Welsh boxing legend, fought there multiple times between 2000 and 2005, successfully defending his titles against Charles Brewer, Byron Mitchell, and Evans Ashira. More recently, the arena has been the stage for world title fights featuring Joe Cordina, including his IBF super-featherweight championship bouts against Kenichi Ogawa and Shavkatdzhon Rakhimov, and the memorable clash between Jessica McCaskill and Lauren Price.

Currently owned by Live Nation UK, the Utilita Arena Cardiff is at a crossroads. Plans for a new Atlantic Wharf arena could potentially lead to its closure and demolition. However, the venue's legacy is not forgotten. With 4,500 square meters of exhibition space, a conference suite accommodating up to 460 people, and four executive boardrooms, it continues to be a versatile and valuable asset.