Italy's Grand Stage for Musk-Zuckerberg Fight
Tesla CEO Elon Musk announced on Friday his intention to fight billionaire rival Mark Zuckerberg in a cage match with an ancient Roman theme. Italy has shown a willingness to host this unusual event, signaling an opportunity for a "large charitable and historically evocative event."
Culture Minister's Support Amidst Opposition Outcry
Italy's Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano expressed his support for the event, albeit without specifying details. Meanwhile, opposition politicians, like former industry minister Carlo Calenda, criticized the decision, viewing it as a misuse of Italy's cultural heritage.
Musk and Zuckerberg's Growing Rivalry
The rivalry between Musk and Zuckerberg has been escalating into a mixed martial arts (MMA) cage match challenge since June. Musk once mentioned Rome's Colosseum as a potential venue, but this was ruled out by Italy. The Tesla CEO has affirmed that the fight will maintain an ancient Roman theme.
Protecting Heritage and Supporting Charities
Sangiuliano emphasized that the fight would not harm Italy's heritage sites and that it would result in a significant donation to Italian pediatric hospitals. The event also presents an opportunity to globally promote Italy's rich history, archaeological, artistic, and cultural heritage.
Possible Venue and Challenge History
Italy's Corriere della Sera newspaper hinted at Pompeii as a potential location for the fight. The confrontation began when Musk challenged Zuckerberg in a June post to a cage match, with Zuckerberg, a jiujitsu trainee, promptly asking Musk to provide the location for the duel.
