Friday, January 28, 2022

Saturday 1/29/2022 Weights And Information

 Two Boxing cards pitting Hall of Fame Boxing promoters Don King and Bob Arum against each other on competing streaming networks will take place on Saturday night in Warren, OH and Tulsa, OK respectively. Below are official weights and legal broadcast information for both cards.

 

Don King Productions: Ilunga Makabu vs. Thabiso Mchunu 2: Packard Music Hall Warren, OH FITE Pay-Per-View

 

Main Event: WBC Cruiserweight world championship – 12Rds.

 

Ilunga Makabu (Champion) 197lbs. vs. Thabiso Mchunu (Challenger) 198 1/2lbs.

 

*Heavyweight – 12Rds.

 

Trevor Bryan 268lbs. vs. Jonathan Guidry 246 1/2lbs.

 

(*Fight is for Interim/Regular status in the WBA’s Heavyweight ratings. A designation currently held by Bryan.)

 

Vacant North American Boxing Association (NABA) Cruiserweight championship – 10Rds.

 

Johnnie Langston 199 1/2lbs. vs. Nick Kisner 198 1/2lbs.

 

Heavyweight – 10Rds.

 

Ahmed Hefny 216lbs. vs. Dacarree Scott 276 1/2lbs.

 

Vacant North American Boxing Association (NABA) Middleweight championship – 10Rds.

 

Michael Moore 164lbs. vs. Anthony Lenk 159lbs.

 

Vacant North American Boxing Association (NABA) Welterweight championship – 10Rds.

 

Cody Wilson 145lbs. vs. Tre'Sean Wiggins 145 1/2lbs.

 

Makabu vs. Mchunu takes place on Saturday, January 29th at Packard Music Hall in Warren, OH. The card can be seen globally on FITE Pay-Per-View beginning at 8PM ET/5PM PT for $49.99. The FITE app is available on mobile, tablet, connected streaming devices, and Smart TVs. For more information about FITE please visit: www.FITE.TV. To order Makabu vs. Mchunu download the FITE app or Click Here.

 

 

 

Bob Arum’s Top Rank Inc.: Robson Conceicao vs. Xavier Martinez: Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Tulsa, OK ESPN+ *Weights for this card unavailable as of this writing. Full list of bouts scheduled to take place on this card are below.

 

Main Event: Jr. Lightweight – 10Rds.

 

Robson Conceicao vs. Xavier Martinez

 

Heavyweight – 8Rds.

 

Stephan Shaw vs. Joey Dawejko

 

Women’s Jr. Lightweight – 8Rds.

 

Kalliopi Kourouni vs. Carla Torres

 

Featherweight – 6Rds.

 

Haven Brady Jr. vs. Diuhl Olguin

 

Middleweight – 4Rds.

 

Nico Ali Walsh vs. Jeremiah Yeager

 

Featherweight – 4Rds.

 

Bruce Carrington vs. Steven Brown

 

Light-Heavyweight – 4Rds.

 

Dante Benjamin vs. Herman Rendon

 

Heavyweight – 4Rds.

 

Jeremiah Milton vs. Dell Long

 

Welterweight – 4Rds.

 

Delante Johnson vs. Xavier Madrid

 

Lightweight – 8Rds.

 

 Juan Tellez vs. Giovanni Cabrera

 

Conceicao vs. Martinez takes place on Saturday, January 29th at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Tulsa, OK. The fight as well as it’s full undercard can be seen in the United States on digital subscription-based sports streaming network ESPN+ beginning at 6:55PM ET/3:55PM PT. ESPN+ is available through the ESPN app on mobile, tablet, connected streaming devices and Smart TVs. For more information about ESPN+ including schedules, list of compatible streaming devices/platforms/Smart TVs, and to subscribe please visit: www.ESPNPlus.com. Check your local listings internationally.

 

The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

 

Follow Beau Denison on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Beau_Denison

Thursday, January 27, 2022

KATIE TAYLOR AND AMANDA SERRANO TO MEET IN HISTORIC BOXING CLASH ON APRIL 30 AT MADISON SQUARE GARDEN ON DAZN


Press Release: January 27, 2022 By DAZN – Pound-for-pound stars are first ever female fighters to headline an MSG event in the iconic venue’s 140 years of boxing history 
Credit: DAZN

Taylor and Serrano will come face-to-face for the first time next Wednesday, February 2 live from NYC.

Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano are set to make history in an epic battle for Taylor’s undisputed Lightweight title at Madison Square Garden in New York on Saturday April 30, live worldwide on DAZN.

TO SIGN UP TO THE EXCLUSIVE PRESALE, VISIT MSG.COM/TAYLORSERRANO

Presale begins at 12noon ET on Thursday February 3, with tickets on general sale at 12noon ET on Friday February 4 – tickets start at $56 (plus fees)

Years in the making, the biggest fight ever in women’s boxing between the pound-for-pound #1 and #2 fighters of the world is one that will not only make boxing history, but women’s sports history. MSG has hosted thousands of fights through its illustrious years, beginning more than a century ago on July 17, 1882; now, 140 years later, this matchup finally marks the very first time two female fighters are headlining a combat sports event at “The World’s Most Famous Arena.”
 
Irish icon Taylor (20-0 6 KOs) puts all the Lightweight belts on the line for the sixth time since winning them in June 2019 in a war with Delfine Persoon and seeing off the Belgian in a rematch in England before repelling the challenges of Miriam Gutierrez, Natasha Jonas, Jennifer Han and Firuza Sharipova – and there’s added spice to the fight as Taylor holds a win over Amanda’s sister Cindy in Boston back in October 2018.
 
Puerto Rican sensation Serrano (42-1-1 30 KOs) already has an unrivalled legacy in the sport as a seven-weight World champion. The Brooklyn based champion enters the momentous bout in sparkling form after knocking out Daniela Bermudez last March, dominating Yamileth Mercado in August and overpowering Miriam Gutierrez in two separate cards co-starring Jake Paul. Amanda was the 2021 Female Fighter of the Year for DAZN, ESPN and WBC among others.
 
“This is a fight I've wanted for a long, long time and I'm just excited for it to finally take place because these are the kind of fights I'm in the sport for,” said Taylor. “People have been talking about this fight for years and there have been times I wondered if it was ever going to happen so I'm very grateful to Eddie Hearn, everyone at Matchroom, DAZN and Madison Square Garden for getting it over the line.
 
“When I turned professional my goal was to be involved in huge events like this so to headline at Madison Square Garden in a fight of this magnitude is really the pinnacle of the sport. It's such an iconic venue and has been home to so many of the historic moments in boxing and I truly believe this will be another one.”
 
“It is a dream come true to have the opportunity to headline Madison Square Garden and do so against one of the greatest boxers of all time in Katie Taylor,” said Serrano. “Since I was a young girl, my only boyfriend has been boxing. I have dedicated my life to him, and this event makes that commitment worth every minute. On April 30th I am going to make history for me, for my team, for my family, for Puerto Rico, for every Latina and Latino and for all women worldwide.” 
 
From the moment Katie Taylor stepped into my office, this is the moment we always dreamed of,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “The moment the world would stop and watch and watch the two greatest female fighters on the planet headline at the Mecca of boxing, Madison Square Garden. 

“Taylor vs. Serrano is a fight for the history books. Yes, it’s the by far the biggest female fight of all time but it’s also one of the biggest fights of all time, the undisputed World and Olympic champion against the seven division World champion.  

“Both fighters deserve credit for getting this fight made, as does Jake Paul and his team at Most Valuable Promotions, DAZN and Madison Square Garden - together we’re going to put on a special night in New York and create a fitting spectacle for these trailblazers to shine.”
 
“We are honored to be a part of this historic event, headlined by two historically dominant women. Bringing attention to women’s boxing has been a priority for us and Saturday April 30th is a major milestone for not just the sport but girls globally who deserve equal opportunity," said Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian, Co-Founders of Most Valuable Promotions. “We expect a battle for the ages and have the utmost respect and admiration for Katie Taylor. But make no mistake, we are standing next to Amanda Serrano and know she will prove to the world that she is the pound-for-pound greatest female boxer to ever enter the ring. This is more than a fight, this is for forever.” 
 
“This is without question the biggest fight ever in women’s boxing,” said Ed Breeze, DAZN EVP, Rights. “Katie Taylor is a trailblazer in the sport, with a perfect amateur record and pivotal in catapulting women’s boxing into the mainstream. Serrano is a true legend and will be Taylor’s toughest test to date. This fight will be spectacular and also one for the history books, and we’re thrilled to deliver this exciting moment in boxing and sports history to DAZN subscribers across the world.”
 
As the first ever women to headline at Madison Square Garden, Taylor and Serrano will come face-to-face in the Big Apple on the first leg of a global press tour next Wednesday, February 2 – timed in honor of National Girls and Women in Sports Day, a day of observance in the U.S. acknowledging the accomplishments of female athletes and recognizing the importance of equal opportunities in sport for girls and women. Billie Jean King - tennis icon, equality champion, and Women’s Sports Foundation founder - is delighted that the fight will take center stage at the legendary arena.
 
“The Taylor vs. Serrano fight at Madison Square Garden is historic and it is only fitting it is being held in the venue that has hosted so many important championships in sports,” said King. “These two women are breaking barriers and opening doors for others by being the main event and not the undercard, fighting for one of the biggest paydays in boxing and showing everyone that if you can see it, you can be it.”
 
“Saturday, April 30 will be another historic night of boxing at Madison Square Garden,” said Joel Fisher, executive vice president, MSG Marquee Events. “The Garden has been home to some of the most iconic events in the history of boxing, and Amanda Serrano and Katie Taylor will usher in another legendary night, becoming the first women to headline a show at the ‘Mecca of Boxing’. We wish them both good luck and congratulate them on this groundbreaking achievement.”
 
Details around the London press conference early February will be released in due course. Additionally, there will be more information released soon around the fight not only being available worldwide on DAZN, but also through select cable & satellite pay-per-view providers in the U.S. 

Material and Photo Courtesy of DAZN Used with permission.

For more information about DAZN including schedules, list of compatible streaming devices/platforms/Smart TVs, availability around the world, local start times in your area, and to subscribe please visit: www.DAZN.com

The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

OLYMPIC CHAMPION GALAL YAFAI SIGNS PROMOTIONAL DEAL WITH MATCHROOM

 Press Release: By DAZN January 27, 2022 – Tokyo 2020 gold medallist makes pro debut on February 27th 

Credit: DAZN

 

Tokyo 2020 Olympic Champion Galal Yafai MBE has signed a long-term promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing and will make his highly anticipated professional debut on the Lawrence Okolie vs. Michal Cieslak WBO Cruiserweight World Title show at The O2 in London on Sunday February 27, live worldwide on DAZN (excluding New Zealand and Australia).

 

Birmingham’s Yafai fulfilled his lifelong dream and became Olympic Champion as he brilliantly won Team GB’s first boxing gold of Tokyo 2020, impressively outpointing the Philippines’ Carlo Paalam to secure gold in the Flyweight division – Britain’s 19th gold medal of the Games. 

 

Yafai comes from a proud boxing family, with old brothers Kal and Gamal having successful careers in the professional ranks after beginning as amateurs. 2008 Olympian Kal won a European silver medal in 2010 before turning pro and winning the WBA Super-Flyweight World Title in 2016, with Gamal winning Commonwealth and European Titles. 

 

"The goal now is to win a World Title," said Yafai. "I know there’s not many who have won Olympic Gold and then a World Title so hopefully I can add my name to that list. There’s some great current World Champions out there at the minute, I’m not going to call out any names but my time will come - I have set my sights on being at the very top.

 

"I’ve boxed all over the World with Team GB, it’s made me into a better fighter no doubt. I’ve fought and sparred with many styles which will stand me in good stead in the pro game. Eyes will be on me as a pro but I thrive on the pressure and it’s a really exciting time to be entering this new chapter of my career.

 

"I remember standing on the podium with the National Anthem playing with the medal around my neck, it was a surreal moment. I enjoyed my time in Tokyo and now I’m ready for the next step. Matchroom are the biggest promotional company in the world. I’ve known Eddie for years obviously with all the shows with my brothers so it was the best fit for me to become a World Champion."

 

“I’m over the moon to secure the signature of Olympic Gold Medallist Galal Yafai and we welcome him with open arms to the Matchroom Boxing and DAZN team,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “Galal was the standout British fighter at the Games and we have a long-standing relationship with his brothers, so it was personally very important to me to get this done. 

 

“Galal is going to do things very differently, for his professional debut at The O2 we are looking for him to challenge for his first professional title and from there move quickly to a World Title which we expect him to win across multiple divisions. This young man is an exceptional talent and you are going to be able to watch him on the biggest shows all over the world live on DAZN.”

 

Material and Photo Courtesy of: DAZN Used with permission.

 

For more information about DAZN including schedules, list of compatible streaming devices/platforms/Smart TVs, availability around the world, local start times in your area, and to subscribe please visit: www.DAZN.com.  

 

The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

 

 

The Conclusion Of January 2022 In Boxing

 Although the Boxing schedule since the beginning of 2022 has been sporadic due in part to the ongoing global COVID-19 epidemic and several postponements of several Boxing cards outside of the United States due to several countries issuing restrictions in an effort to combat the latest surge of the virus and it’s latest Omnicon variant. The end of January 2022 however, will be highlighted by two separate cards on Saturday, January29th promoted by rival Hall of Fame promoters Don King and Bob Arum.

 

In some ways, this is a scenario that brings Boxing back to a previous era where Arum and King would go head to head on competing platforms as each at one time or another held claim as the top promoter in the sport. Now, in 2022, both Arum and King, each at the age of ninety are each still going strong and will be promoting two interesting cards that are each compelling for their own reasons.

 

First, Don King will present a seven bout card that can be seen on FITE Pay-Per-View from the Packard Music Hall in Warren, OH. In the main event WBC Cruiserweight world champion Ilunga Makabu will make the second defense of his world title against WBC number one rated Cruiserweight contender Thabiso Mchunu. A rematch from a bout in May 2015 when the then contender Makabu knocked out Mchunu in eleven rounds. Beyond this fight being a case that can be simply defined as a world champion facing the mandatory number one contender in the organization in which they hold a world title, for Makabu, this fight has added significance as he has been named as a potential opponent for current Undisputed Super-Middleweight world champion Saul “Canelo” Alvarez. While obviously a fight with Alvarez, who would move up two weight classes from the 168lb. Super-Middleweight division to the 190lb. Cruiserweight division to challenge Makabu, would garner significant attention due to Alvarez’ standing as arguably the number one marquee draw in the sport, obviously, the current WBC Cruiserweight champion will need to take care of matters against Mchunu before any potential bout with Alvarez could be negotiated.

 

Although this is a fight between two of the top Cruiserweights in the world, it is also arguable that this bout between Makabu and Mchunu has gained considerable attention due to the possibility of a fight with Alvarez looming ahead for Makabu, should he successfully defend his championship.  In terms of what to expect when Makabu and Mchunu face off, Makabu is an offensive-minded fighter who has scored twenty-five knockouts in his twenty eight career wins. The champion has shown in his career that he has a good power, particularly in his left hook as well as a willingness to engage in exchanges of offense with his opponents. While this indicates the possibility for an entertaining bout for the Boxing fan, it can also leave the champion vulnerable and he was stopped in his two career losses, which is something to keep in mind. Makabu has been undefeated since losing in his first world title shot when he lost to Tony Bellew in 2016 for what was then the vacant WBC championship in the Cruiserweight division. Since that bout, Makabu has been unbeaten in nine bouts in which he has scored knockouts in seven of those bouts. 

 

Standing across the ring from Makabu will be Thabiso Mchunu. Mchunu, a fighter with twenty-eight career bouts to his credit will enter the bout with a record of 23-5, with 13 Knockouts. The challenger  is a boxer/puncher, who one might assume will be looking to extend Makabu into the middle and late rounds of this fight if he can. Mchunu has won four straight bouts coming into this bout in what will be his second attempt at a world championship after previously being stopped by undefeated former Undisputed Cruiserweight world champion Oleksandr Usyk in December 2016, when the current unified Heavyweight world champion made a successful defense of his WBO Cruiserweight crown in stopping Mchunu in nine rounds. Although both Makabu and Mchunu are not particularly well-known here in the United States, they are two world-class fighters and it will be interesting to see if they will be able to take advantage of the increased exposure here and also if the winner of this bout will be able to secure what will likely be the most lucrative payday of their career by potentially fighting Alvarez.

 

The co-main event of this card will see undefeated top Heavyweight contender Trevor Bryan face undefeated contender Jonathan Guidry in a bout scheduled for twelve rounds. Bryan, who currently holds interim/regular champion status in the World Boxing Association’s (WBA) Heavyweight ratings, has had several on again, off again agreements to fight longtime contender Manuel Charr, who at one point also held an interim/regular designation in the WBA ratings. While that fight for whatever reason has not materialized, Bryan will be returning to the ring for the first time in exactly one year to face the unbeaten Guidry. In his last bout, Bryan stopped former WBC Heavyweight world champion Bermane Stiverne in eleven rounds in Hollywood, FL.  Bryan will enter this bout unbeaten with a record of 21-0, with 15 Knockouts.  

 

While this in reality is a fight where Bryan will look to make a strong argument for himself as a potential opponent for the winner of the upcoming rematch between undefeated unified IBF/WBA/WBO/IBO Heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Usyk and former two-time champion Anthony Joshua, he faces a bit of the unknown against Guidry, who is currently rated number thirteen in the world by the WBA in the Heavyweight division.

 

Like Bryan, Guidry is unbeaten in his career and will enter the bout with a record of 17-0-2, with 10 Knockouts. Guidry has yet to face a notable opponent in his career and therein lies the element of the unknown as a big question that surrounds this fight will be what Guidry will have to offer. Although Bryan is likely to be viewed as a favorite going into this encounter, it will be interesting to see how Guidry responds to this, his first notable fight against a top contender and if he does perform well win or lose if his current standing in the top fifteen of the WBA’s Heavyweight contenders will be elevated after this fight.

 

While the Makabu-Mchunu rematch and Bryan-Guidry bouts will co-headline a pay-per-view card, Bob Arum will stage a Boxing card at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Tulsa, OK. In the main event of this card, which can be seen here in the United States on digital subscription-based sports streaming network ESPN+, a battle of top Jr. Lightweight contenders current WBC number four rated contender Robson Conceicao will face undefeated WBA number four rated contender Xavier Martinez in a bout scheduled for ten rounds. This arguably pits two fighters at very similar stages in their respective careers against each other and is a bout between two boxer/punchers who can do a bit of everything. Conceicao will be looking to rebound in this fight after suffering his only career defeat in his last bout in a failed challenge of WBC Jr. Lightweight world champion Oscar Valdez in September of last year in which he lost a twelve round unanimous decision.

 

Conceicao, who will enter this bout with a record of 16-1, with 8 Knockouts may have come out on the short end that evening against one of the best fighters in the world in Valdez, but he did give a good account of himself in defeat. Although this may have an appearance to some as what is sometimes referred to within the sport as a “Comeback Fight” fight Conceicao, he will be facing another top contender in his first bout coming off that loss in Xavier Martinez.

 

Some might say that Martinez, who will enter this bout unbeaten with a record of 17-0, with 11 Knockouts, is in a similar position as Conceicao was before he faced Valdez in that though he is highly ranked, there is still somewhat of the unknown as far as how good Martinez might be. In fairness, in his last two bouts, Martinez did score victories over notable contenders and former world title challengers  Claudio Marrero and Juan Carlos Burgos. One might argue by now facing a third consecutive former world title challenger in Conceicao, that if Martinez were to win this fight that his next bout might be a challenge of one of the world champions in the 130lb. Jr. Lightweight division. While there are similarities between the two fighters in terms of their records, respective rankings, as well as their Boxing styles, this fight may come down to who is able to get an advantage on the other and whether or not they will be able to maintain that advantage for the duration of the fight.  An interesting battle between one fighter looking for his opportunity at a world championship going against another fighter looking for a second chance.

 

While January 29th will be a throwback evening of Boxing for many as two legendary promoters pit their respective cards against each other on competing streaming platforms in a scenario that is not unlike how things were for decades between Bob Arum and Don King on across cable/satellite networks and pay-per-view, the rivalry between the two continues and though the landscape of both technology as well as the sport of Boxing as a whole has definitely changed, we will see what this next chapter in that promotional rivalry has to offer.

 

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

 

Makabu vs. Mchunu takes place on Saturday, January 29th at Packard Music Hall in Warren, OH. The card can be seen globally on FITE Pay-Per-View beginning at 8PM ET/5PM PT for $49.99. The FITE app is available on mobile, tablet, connected streaming devices, and Smart TVs. For more information about FITE please visit: www.FITE.TV. To order Makabu vs. Mchunu download the FITE app or Click Here.

 

Conceicao vs. Martinez takes place on Saturday, January 29th at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Tulsa, OK. The fight as well as it’s full undercard can be seen in the United States on digital subscription-based sports streaming network ESPN+ beginning at 5:55PM ET/2:55PM PT. ESPN+ is available through the ESPN app on mobile, tablet, connected streaming devices and Smart TVs. For more information about ESPN+ including schedules, list of compatible streaming devices/platforms/Smart TVs, and to subscribe please visit: www.ESPNPlus.com. Check your local listings internationally.

 

The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

 

Follow Beau Denison on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Beau_Denison

Wednesday, January 26, 2022

PROBELLUM’S UPCOMING DUBAI EVENT TO HOST HISTORY-MAKING FEMALE WORLD TITLE MATCH

 Press Release: By Probellum –

PROBELLUM’S UPCOMING DUBAI EVENT TO HOST HISTORY-MAKING FEMALE WORLD TITLE MATCH


Dubai, UAE – January 26, 2022 – Olympic gold medalist Estelle Mossely will face Argentinian Yanina del Carmen Lescano at Probellum’s two-night boxing showcase in Dubai this March, with the fighters making history by competing in the Middle East’s first-ever female world title match.

Credit: Probellum


 

The final headline bouts for Probellum’s first event of the year have now been confirmed, with Jono Carroll also in action.

Those two fights will take place on the opening night, following the announcement that Sunny Edwards will put his IBF flyweight title on the line against Muhammad Waseem on night two, with Regis Prograis and Tyrone McKenna facing off in the co-main event.

Probellum’s Dubai double-header takes place on March 18 and 19 at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, located at The Irish Village, in association with Jumeirah Creekside Hotel.

Undefeated IBO world lightweight champion Mossely (9-0, 1 knockout), Probellum’s most recent signing and the 2016 Olympic and World Champion, will become the first female boxer to headline an event in the Middle East.

Carroll (21-2-1), meanwhile, will be looking to build on his impressive win at Probellum’s previous Dubai show at the Coca-Cola Arena in December.

“History will be made on the opening night of our upcoming event in Dubai as Estelle Mossely and Yanina del Carmen Lescano go head-to-head,” said Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum.

“Probellum continues to make big strides in the boxing world and our ability to host events of this magnitude, having only launched in September, is indicative of our long-term ambitions.

“Our first show in Dubai last year was a huge success and this upcoming event, which includes two consecutive nights of top-level boxing, promises to be even bigger and better.

“I am looking forward to being in Dubai to watch history being made, and I would urge boxing fans across the Middle East to make sure they secure a ticket as this is an event not to be missed.”

With the event taking place over St Patrick’s Day weekend, more of Ireland’s most talented boxers will be confirmed to compete over the course of both nights in the coming weeks.

In the lead-up to the event there will be a week-long programme of entertainment including public workouts, press conferences and weigh-ins, along with a series of activations, while The Irish Village will be introducing special offers for those fans who purchase tickets for Fight Night.

Ticket prices start from 50 AED and are available to purchase from Friday, 28th January via Platinum List or in-person at The Irish Village, Al Garhoud and Studio City.


For live news and updates, be sure to follow Probellum on InstagramTwitter and Facebook.

 

 

About Probellum

Launched in September 2021, Probellum is a global boxing promotion and media company, and the fastest-growing brand in the sport.
Probellum’s elite stable includes Nonito Donaire, Lee McGregor, Donnie Nietes, Troy Williamson, Dina Thorslund, Muhammad Waseem, O’Shaquie Foster, Will Cawley, Mark Dickinson and Pat and Luke McCormack.

Since launching, Probellum has signed co-promotional partnerships with some of the biggest promoters globally, including Wasserman (Germany), Universum (Germany), GYM (Canada), Maravilla Box (Spain), Team Ellis (Australia), Titov Boxing Promotions (Russia), Volcano Boxing (El Salvador), BXSTRS Promotions (Mexico), PR Best (Puerto Rico) Glozier Boxing (New Zealand), Box Office Sports (Ghana) and LNK Boxing (Latvia).

Probellum hosted its inaugural event at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena in December 2021.

 

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Probellum Used with permission.

 

The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

Tuesday, January 25, 2022

DUBAI TO HOST PROBELLUM DOUBLE-HEADER FEATURING WORLD TITLE FIGHTS IN MARCH

 

Press Release: By Probellum –

Dubai, UAE - January 25, 2022 - Probellum returns to Dubai in March for an action-packed weekend of elite-level boxing staged over two consecutive nights with an incredible card featuring a combination of current and former world champions, Olympic medalists and hugely talented young fighters.  

Credit: Probellum

Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, located at The Irish Village, in association with Jumeirah Creekside Hotel, will host Probellum’s first shows of the year - and one of the UAE’s biggest-ever boxing showcases - on March 18 and 19.

The main and co-main event for night one will be announced this week, while two fantastic bouts top the bill on the second night, with IBF flyweight champion Sunny Edwards (17-0, 4 knockouts), from the UK, defending his title against Muhammad Waseem (12-1, 8 knockouts), one of Pakistan’s biggest boxing stars, in the headline contest.

That will be preceded by an intriguing clash between Ireland’s WBO intercontinental super-lightweight champion Tyrone McKenna (22-2-1, 6 knockouts) and Regis Prograis (26-1, 22 knockouts), the American former super-lightweight world champion who signed to Probellum in October.

Probellum heads back to Dubai following its hugely successful inaugural event, which took place at the Coca-Cola Arena in December, hosted by legendary ring announcer Michael Buffer.

“We are absolutely delighted to be returning to Dubai for our first event of 2022,” said Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum.

“Probellum has made a huge impact in the boxing world in a short period and we have some major plans for this year, starting with these two history-making shows in Dubai.

“There was a fantastic response to our first-ever event, which took place in Dubai at the end of last year, and we know there is a big appetite for boxing in the city.

“These two shows will feature many top-quality fighters from around the world, including Sunny Edwards, Muhammad Waseem, Tyrone McKenna, and Regis Prograis. We would encourage fans to secure tickets early in order to ensure they don’t miss out on what will undoubtedly be another fantastic event.”

With the shows taking place over St Patrick’s Day weekend, there will be an Irish theme to proceedings and more of the country’s most impressive boxers, in addition to McKenna, are set to be confirmed for the event over the coming weeks.

In the lead-up to the event there will be a week-long programme of entertainment including public workouts, press conferences and weigh-ins, along with a series of activations, while The Irish Village will be introducing special offers for those fans who purchase tickets for Fight Night.

Ticket prices start from 50 AED and are available to purchase from Friday, 28th January via Platinum List or in-person at The Irish Village, Al Garhoud and Studio City.


For live news and updates, be sure to follow Probellum on InstagramTwitter and Facebook.

 

 

About Probellum

Launched in September 2021, Probellum is a global boxing promotion and media company, and the fastest-growing brand in the sport.
 
Probellum’s elite stable includes Nonito Donaire, Lee McGregor, Donnie Nietes, Troy Williamson, Dina Thorslund, Muhammad Waseem, O’Shaquie Foster, Will Cawley, Mark Dickinson and Pat and Luke McCormack.
 
Since launching, Probellum has signed co-promotional partnerships with some of the biggest promoters globally, including Wasserman (Germany), Universum (Germany), GYM (Canada), Maravilla Box (Spain), Team Ellis (Australia), Titov Boxing Promotions (Russia), Volcano Boxing (El Salvador), BXSTRS Promotions (Mexico), PR Best (Puerto Rico) Glozier Boxing (New Zealand), Box Office Sports (Ghana) and LNK Boxing (Latvia).
 
Probellum hosted its inaugural event at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena in December 2021.

 

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Probellum Used with permission.

 

The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

JULIO CESAR MARTINEZ CLASHES WITH CHOCOLATITO GONZALEZ MARCH 5TH ON DAZN

 Press Release: January 25, 2022 By DAZN – World Flyweight ruler moves up in weight against Super-Fly legend on March 05

 

Julio Cesar Martinez will face Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez at the Pechanga Arena San Diego in San Diego, California on Saturday, March 5, live worldwide on DAZN. 

Credit:DAZN

 

Martinez (18-1 14 KOs) fights at 115lbs for the first time and does so against a legend of the weight in Chocolatito (50-3 41 KOs), with the Mexican stepping in to replace Juan Francisco Estrada, who has been forced out of his trilogy clash with Chocolatito with COVID.

 

Martinez’s last action was a trademark all-action shootout with McWilliams Arroyo in New Hampshire in November, with both men hitting the canvas in the opening round and Martinez flooring Arroyo in the second before the contest was stopped with Arroyo suffering a cut.

 

The exciting Mexican has spoken freely of his desire to move up in weight and challenge himself against the cream of the 115lb scene like Chocolatito and Estrada, and opportunity has knocked loudly for the 26 year old to announce himself at Super-Flyweight in San Diego and ‘El Rey’ plans to do so in style against the Nicaraguan star.

 

“I am thrilled that I am able to move up in weight and fight the very best straight away,” said Martinez. “Chocolatito is a living legend and a fighter I have always admired, so to be fighting him in my first fight at Super-Flyweight is special – but on the night, it’s going to be war and I am ready for it. 

 

“I have ambitions to unify the Flyweight division and that flame still burns, but this fight is so huge for me, and I did not hesitate to accept it – I promise the fans that I will put on a show.”

 

“What a fight!” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Julio has ambitions to become a pound-for-pound star, and this is what the greats do – meet huge challenges head on and take them with both hands. Chocolatito is a modern great and he’s relishing this test against El Rey – I cannot wait for this fight and I’m so happy that both men have signed on the dotted line to deliver this brilliant fight to the fans.”

 

A stacked undercard sees Mauricio Lara return to action against Emilio SanchezAngel Fierro defends his WBO NABO Lightweight title against Juan Carlos BurgosDiego Pacheco tastes eight round action for the fourth time against Genc PllanaMarc Castro is in his sixth pro fight, Anthony Herrera fights for the second time in the paid ranks and Australian Skye Nicolson makes her pro debut.

 

Tickets starting at $50 are on sale now from Ticketmaster - fans that require refunds from the original headline fight should contact their point of purchase.

 

Material and Photo Courtesy of: DAZN Used with permission.

 

For more information about DAZN including schedules, list of compatible streaming devices/platforms/Smart TVs, availability around the world, local start times in your area, and to subscribe please visit: www.DAZN.com.

 

The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

 

Monday, January 24, 2022

An Argument For A Magsayo-Russell Rematch

 

As the month of January 2022 has been a spotty one in terms of the Boxing schedule due in part to the ongoing global COVID-19 epidemic, there obviously has not been the usual activity in terms of action inside of the ring that we saw in 2021 and before the epidemic began in late 2019. The first notable world championship fight in 2022 however, did take place on January 22nd at the Borgata Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, NJ. This observer is referring to the battle for the WBC Featherweight world championship between champion Gary Russell and undefeated WBC number three rated contender Mark Magsayo.

 

Perhaps it is simply the point of view of yours truly as a veteran Boxing historian and writer, but this encounter did not seem to have much in the way of an abundance of hype in the weeks and days prior to it taking place. This could be due to the circumstances of the ongoing epidemic and possible uncertainty as to whether or not the fight would take place as scheduled. While this is only speculation my part, it was refreshing in a sense that this was simply two highly skilled fighters facing off for a world championship. Although the recent history of the 126lb. Featherweight division has not had the type of name recognition value that the division has enjoyed in decades past both due to fighters either retiring or moving up in weight, this was perhaps the beginning of a new era for the division.

 

In terms of how the two fighters matched up, this figured to be an encounter between a boxer/puncher in the champion Russell going against an unbeaten, but untested challenger a Magsayo. This fight also featured the dynamic of a southpaw going against an orthodox fighter. What stood out almost immediately was the tactical approach in which Magsayo implemented his offense. Under some circumstances when an orthodox fighter faces a southpaw, there can be difficulty for the orthodox fighter to get into a consistent rhythm offensively. This was a case where Magsayo was able to establish distance as well as attack in sporadic spurts with a variety of offense ranging from straight right hands, hooks with both hands, as well as uppercuts, and mixing all the above between the body and the head of the champion Russell. It was also noticeable that whenever Russell would land something significant, Magsayo with immediately counter punch.

 

What was also clear was the champion seemed to have difficulty with his right shoulder, which can turn out to be crucial if you are southpaw fighter because any injury to your right hand or shoulder will compromise your lead hand. As the fight progressed, this is essentially what appeared to be happening as Russell was very sporadic in throwing his right hand and this allowed Magsayo to control the tempo of the combat as well as outwork the champion. Although Russell had successfully defended his title five times going into this fight, it should not be overlooked that this was his first bout in nearly two years as his last bout was in February 2020 shortly before the COVID-19 epidemic began to significantly change day to day life here in the United States and created a lengthy shutdown for many sports including Boxing during that year. Whether or not Russell’s sporadic offense was attributed to an injury as well as inactivity is debatable, but in my eyes Magsayo was doing what all fighters who challenge for a world championship are expected to do, bring the fight to the champion.

 

Despite seemingly controlling the tempo of the combat, as the fight progressed into the middle and late rounds of the scheduled twelve round world championship bout, Magsayo slightly seemed to decrease his activity, perhaps due to fatigue. This created an opening for the champion who had success in spots in landing his left hand and at times being able to catch the challenger as he came forward with the left hand. Even though I felt that Magsayo had carried the fight with his greater activity and ring generalship throughout much of the bout, I did wonder whether or not what Russell was able to accomplish though sporadic particularly over the second half of the fight would be enough to earn rounds on the scorecards.

 

After all, even the most seasoned of observers of which yours truly is one, can never know which way three official judges may be leaning in their scoring of a fight. In many cases, it can come down to what amounts to an educated guess based on the experience that one accumulates from watching fights on every level and every form that the sport of Boxing has to offer. In the interest of honesty with the reader, I will say as a Boxing lifer, there have been more than a few times that I have been surprised and have disagreed with an official decision based on what I saw in a fight.

 

Sometimes in addition to what amounts to an educated guess can also be influenced by a gut feeling that one gets. This was a fight where both fighters had clear moments of success. The question that developed in my mind as the bout approached the final three rounds was whether or not sporadic counter punching by Russell would be enough to overcome the greater activity of Magsayo as well as how the challenger seemingly dictated the combat from the outset. While my gut feeling was that Magsayo had done enough to win the fight on my scorecard, I had learned long ago never to dismiss the possibility of the judges seeing things differently. It was also indisputable that Russell was able to make up some ground down the stretch and at minimum I felt that the possibility was there to see some narrow scorecards in the sense of close scores being rendered.

 

As it would turn out the instinct of this observer to not dismiss how the three judges may have saw things turned out to be correct in terms of seeing close scorecards as at the end of the twelve round world championship bout, two of three official judges scored the fight 115-113 or seven rounds to five in favor of Mark Magsayo making him the winner and new champion via majority decision, while the third judge had the fight even at six rounds a piece or 114-114 in points. Unofficially, I had Magsayo winning the fight eight rounds to four or 116-112 in points.

 

At the end of the day, despite what I felt was a significant lead that Magsayo was able to build early on and through the middle rounds, what things amounted to here was essentially a one round swing in terms of both my unofficial score as well as the official scores. If the reader is a little confused allow me to elaborate. If one round were scored differently on my unofficial card, I would have ended up with the same 115-113 scorecard as two of the three official judges. If one of those judges had scored one round differently, they would have arrived at the same score as the third official judge in rendering a draw, which obviously changes the outcome of the fight. Simply put, it turned out to be a very close and competitive fight particularly down the stretch than what I observed over the first seven rounds in which I felt Magsayo had done enough to pull away with the fight in addition to winning a round down the stretch. It is something that unfortunately has become a habit of mine in saying over the years, but when it comes to close fights, it will often boil down to what a judge prefers in their own criteria in how they score based on clean punching, effective aggressiveness, ring generalship, and defense. By its very nature, judging is selective and obviously opinions can vary.

 

Should there be a rematch? This observer would say yes, based not only on the fact that Russell had held onto the WBC Featherweight world championship for over six years, but also what turned out to be a close fight. How soon a rematch can be made will likely come down to the condition of Gary Russell’s shoulder as well as whether or not the World Boxing Council (WBC) will mandate a rematch take place and/or if there was a rematch clause in the contract for this fight. Without getting into the various elements of what amounts to red tape that can prevent a rematch from happening within a reasonable timeframe, if Russell is healthy and does not require much downtime from the apparent injury to his right shoulder, and if both fighters want to fight each other again, why not? It was a good and competitive fight after all.

 

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

 

The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

 

Follow Beau Denison on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Beau_Denison

 

 

 

Sunday, January 23, 2022

UNDEFEATED WORLD CHAMPION MOSSELY SIGNS FOR PROBELLUM

 Press Release: By Probellum – Los Angeles, CA - January 23, 2022 - Probellum is delighted to announce the promotional signing of IBO world lightweight champion and Olympic gold medallist, Estelle Mossely. 

Credit: Probellum 


The 29-year-old French fighter (9-0, 1 knockout), who is undefeated as a professional, clinched the IBO world lightweight title in 2019 with a victory over Lucy Wildheart.
 
Prior to turning professional, Paris-born Mossely enjoyed a stellar career at amateur level winning gold medals at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games and World Championships, where she famously defeated current undisputed female world lightweight champion Katie Taylor at the semi-final stage.
 
“I am very excited to embark on the next stage of my boxing journey with Richard Schaefer and his team at Probellum,” said Mossely.
 
“I have known Richard for many years and his track record as a promoter speaks for itself – he really knows how to build champions into superstars and I’m excited to start working closely with him.
 
“As a truly global boxing promoter with events all around the world, Probellum offers me the ideal platform to showcase my skills and bring more fans to female boxing. I predict very exciting times ahead and can’t wait to get started.”
 
“I have been a fan of Estelle since her historic gold at the 2016 Rio Olympics,” added Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum“Not only because of her tremendous boxing skills, but also the way she carries herself outside the ring which makes her in my view the best ambassador for female boxing in the world.
 
“She is a role model for fans and fighters everywhere and in my opinion today, she is the best pound-for-pound female fighter in the world. In fact, I have not seen the kind of ring talent and skills from any other fighter, male or female, since I was fortunate to promote Floyd Mayweather.
 
“I am honoured and humbled that Estelle has chosen Probellum to be her promoter and I am already working round the clock to plan her first fight under the Probellum banner.”
 
Mossely becomes the second undefeated female champion to sign for Probellum, following Danish fighter Dina Thorslund signing earlier this month, and joins a stable which also includes the likes of Pat and Luke McCormack, Troy Williamson, Regis Prograis, Nonito Donaire, Donnie Nietes, Lee McGregor, Eimantas Stanionis, Arthur Biyarslanov, Noel Mikaelian, Taras Shelestyuk, Ricky Burns, Paul Butler, Lewis Ritson, Muhammad Waseem, O’Shaquie Foster, Hovhannes Bachkov, Darius Fulghum, Eduardo Hernandez, Mark Dickinson, Brandon Moore, Jack Bowen, Jason Mallia, Hebert Sousa, Dina Thorslund, Ben Rees and Will Cawley.
 
Probellum has also secured co-promotional agreements with Wasserman Boxing, Universum in Germany, Groupe Yvon Michel in Canada, Maravillabox Promotions in Spain, Kynoch Boxing in Scotland, Mitchell Sports Promotions in England, LNK Boxing in Latvia, Titov Boxing in Russia, Glozier Boxing in New Zealand, Cuadrilatero Boxing in Colombia, PR Best Boxing in Puerto Rico, Shuan Boxing Promotions in the Dominican Republic, Bufalo Boxing in Nicaragua, Team Ellis Boxing in Australia, Moron Boxing in Venezuela, Volcano Boxing in El Salvador, Armin Tan Promotions in Indonesia, Pro Boxing Team Finland and Box Office Sports in Ghana.
 
For live news and updates, be sure to follow Probellum on InstagramTwitter and Facebook.

 

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Probellum Used with permission.

 

The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

Saturday, January 22, 2022

Russell-Magsayo Weights From Atlantic City, NJ

 

The official weigh-in for Saturday’s WBC Featherweight world championship fight between champion Gary Russell and undefeated challenger Mark Magsayo took place yesterday in Atlantic City, NJ. Weights for the televised card, which is being promoted by the Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) and will be televised here in the United States on premium cable network Showtime are as follows.

 

Main Event: WBC Featherweight world championship – 12Rds.

 

Gary Russell (Champion) 125 1/2lbs. vs. Mark Magsayo (Challenger) 125 1/2lbs.

 

*Jr. Welterweight – 12Rds.

 

Subriel Matias 140 1/2lbs. vs. Petros Ananyan 141lbs.

 

(*This will be a rematch of a bout from February 2020 in which Ananyan won a ten round unanimous decision.)

 

Jr. Lightweight – 10Rds.

 

Tugstsogt Nyambayar 128lbs. vs. Sakaria Lukas 127 1/2lbs.

 

*The three above bouts will be broadcast on Showtime beginning at 9PM ET/6PM PT.

 

Weights for the remaining unaired preliminary bouts are not available as of this writing.

 

Russell vs. Magsayo takes place Tonight (Saturday, January 22nd) at the Borgota Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, NJ. This tripleheader can be seen in the United States on Premium cable/satellite network Showtime as well as streamed through the Showtime and Showtime Anytime streaming apps available on mobile, tablet, connected streaming devices, and Smart TVs beginning at 9PM ET/6PM PT. Check your cable or satellite provider for time and channel in your area. Check your local listings internationally.

 

For more information about Showtime, Showtime Sports, and the Showtime and Showtime Anytime streaming apps, please visit: www.SHO.com.

 

For more information about Premier Boxing Champions please visit: www.PremierBoxingChampions.com.

 

The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

 

Follow Beau Denison on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Beau_Denison

Wednesday, January 19, 2022

Jabs And Observations: January 2022

 

A new feature for 2022 here on The Boxing Truth®, which this observer hopes will become a semi-regular addition amongst the variety of content offered to readers where yours truly will attempt as best as he can to cover several topics in a condensed manner that may or may not be worthy of a standalone feature column.

 

As some Boxing fans know, the month of January has been a relatively slow one for the sport of Boxing. This is due in part to several scheduled international Boxing cards being cancelled and/or rescheduled due to the ongoing global COVID-19 epidemic and travel restrictions internationally as several countries look to limit exposure to the COVID-19 virus.  There was however, one notable bout that took place on January 15th in Verona, NY. I am referring to WBO Light-Heavyweight world champion Joe Smith Jr., who defended his title against late substitute Steve Geffrard. Much like several other bouts to have taken place over the last two years throughout the entire sport, this Light-Heavyweight world championship bout saw Geffrard step in on a little more than a week’s notice when original opponent Callum Johnson had to withdraw from challenging Smith due to contracting COVID-19.

 

Something that this observer has said too often particularly since the COVID-19 crisis began is when it comes to fights that are made on short-notice, it is as difficult for a fighter who had a change in opponent to prepare as it is for the fighter that is stepping into a bout with limited notice. While the practice of fighters stepping in on short-notice is certainly not a new one and did not become common because of the ongoing epidemic, the fact that there is a crisis going on, on a global scale certainly has to be an additional stress for fighters that find themselves in this scenario.

 

For his part, Geffrard did enter the bout having won his last eighteen bouts after beginning his career with losses in his first two bouts. Geffrard was however, taking a significant step up in class of opposition having been relatively unknown prior to this fight. Geffrard did manage to have some success periodically throughout this fight in landing sporadic counter punches from a high defensive guard. The challenger was unable to take the initiative and be the one throwing punches first throughout the bout. This was due to the consistent pressure that Smith was able to put on him as well as the champion’s consistent offensive output throughout. It was Smith’s pressure that eventually further limited Geffrard’s offense and ultimately an accumulation of punishment resulted in Smith dropping the “Game” challenger in round nine where Geffrard was unable to beat the count.

 

What was the first defense of the world championship that Smith won in April of last year was the definition of workmanlike in that he simply went through the motions and took care of business under circumstances, which had to of been stressful. As for what this will mean for Joe Smith in the big picture, he still maintains his position atop the 175lb. Light-Heavyweight division along with fellow world champion Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol. Although yours truly strongly wishes for all world championships throughout Boxing’s seventeen weight classes to eventually be unified to determine one world champion per weight division, something that has been a regular addition to this observer’s annual “Boxing Wishlist” over the years, it would appear that in regard to the Light-Heavyweight division, all three current world champion, the WBC/IBF world champion Beterbiev, the WBA world champion Bivol, and the WBO world champion Smith may not be focused on each other, but rather trying to secure a lucrative fight against Saul “Canelo” Alvarez, the sport’s biggest star and the man currently recognized as Undisputed Super-Middleweight world champion, one weight class below the Light-Heavyweight division.

 

Alvarez as some may remember, also briefly held the WBO Light-Heavyweight world championship, but opted to move back down in weight where at the time he held a mandatory challenger position in the WBA’s Super-Middleweight ratings that eventually saw him win the WBA title and go on to unify the championship with the WBC, IBF, and WBO crowns to earn undisputed champion status. Recently, there has been talk of Alvarez testing the waters in the normally obscure Cruiserweight division, which is one weight class above Light-Heavyweight. The reason why the division is obscure is it is not thought to be the most lucrative option for most fighters as a possible steppingstone to competing at Heavyweight.

 

What this could mean for the Light-Heavyweight world champions is simply waiting to see what Alvarez will do before possibly turning their attention to each other to possibly unify the division. Obviously, if either Smith, Bivol, or Beterbiev can secure an opportunity to face Alvarez, that will likely take priority over any potential unification bouts simply due to economic interests if nothing else.  As for Steve Geffrard, he did his best under circumstances, which are not ideal for a fighter challenging for a world championship for the first time. Hopefully, this will not be the last time Geffrard will see action in or around the top of the Light-Heavyweight division because it is frankly hard to form an opinion as to how viable a fighter may or may not be when they are tasked with taking fights on such a limited notice. Perhaps, under different circumstances where he is able to prepare for a fight that does not come as a result of short notice/unforeseen circumstances, he may be able to show more than he was able to against Smith, but he should be given credit for the effort he did put forth. With the discussion of Smith-Geffrard, the Light-Heavyweight division, it’s champions, and the possibility of Saul Alvarez interjecting himself into the equation now complete, it is time to focus on the second and last topic for this edition of Jabs And Observations.

 

As many readers know, particularly those who have followed the work of this observer over the years, one subject that continuously comes up more than most is my continued criticism of the pay-per-view model as well as the benefits of the digital subscription-based streaming model as it relates to not only the fans who support Boxing in good times and bad, but the benefit it also has for the sport itself in providing a more economically reasonable option for consumers to view Boxing and not be forced to pay often steep prices on a per card basis via pay-per-view. Despite the pay-per-view model continuing to dwindle due largely to price points, which more often than not begin at a $60 or above price point here in the United States, which has consequently resulted in most pay-per-view offerings producing underwhelming returns in terms of buys, there remains some promoters who continue to rely on such a model rather than adapt.

 

In the coming weeks, there are three pay-per-view Boxing cards on the schedule that occur within a week of each other, with two taking place on the same day. The first of these cards will take place on January 29th in Warren, OH as Hall of Fame promoter Don King will present a seven fight card headlined by WBC Cruiserweight world champion Ilunga Makabu, who will defend his title for the second time against top contender Thabiso Mchunu. While neither fighter is particularly well-known here I’m the United States, Makabu has generated interest as a potential opponent for Saul Alvarez should he test the waters at Cruiserweight. While the Makabu-Mchunu card will be priced at $49.99, a price point that is lower than many pay-per-view cards in present day, there may be questions as to how successful the event might be due simply to the fact that Makabu and Mchunu are not what one could consider household names. A further detriment to the potential success of that card is the fact that two pay-per-view events will take place on February 5th, one week later. First will be the rescheduled event headlined by Women’s Boxing superstar and multi-division  world champion Claressa Shields, who will defend her Undisputed Middleweight world championship against Ema Kozin in a bout scheduled for ten rounds in Cardiff, Wales. Some may recall that this fight and its undercard, which will feature a Super-Middleweight bout between former IBO world champion Chris Eubank Jr. and Liam Williams, was postponed from its original January 29th date due to the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) suspending all combat sports events throughout January in the United Kingdom due to COVID-19 concerns. If the suspension of events is not extended, this card will cost Boxing fans $29.99, a much lower and arguably reasonable price point than the norm. It is an event that will face some competition for buys as later that night former WBA Welterweight world champion Keith Thurman will return to the ring after a new two year layoff to face Mario Barrios in a Fox Sports Pay-Per-View main event promoted by the Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) group of promoters for a price point of $74.95.

 

It is important for me to state, despite my ongoing criticism of the pay-per-view model, that my criticism is not aimed at any of the fighters involved, but rather the promoters who for whatever reason refuse to see the need to adapt. Although it  should not be viewed as the sole reason for the need to adapt, by those that I often refer to as “Hold Outs,” we are still in the midst of an ongoing epidemic and as such there remains uncertainty as to whether whatever is on the schedule whether those events are pay-per-view offerings or not, will go on as planned under the current circumstances. Here is a scenario where the Boxing fan will be asked to pay $154.93 for three separate Boxing cards. When one considers the amount of Boxing content that is offered on digital subscription-based sports streaming networks such as DAZN and ESPN+ where each offers an annual subscription plan where the total combined cost for a year’s subscription to both networks is just shy of $169 per year and keeping in mind that in the case of ESPN+ they have done pay-per-view Boxing events on an occasional basis with underwhelming returns, it is not hard to see where the value is for the consumer.

 

One should also keep in mind that promoters, much like the rest of the world have had to deal with circumstances created by the COVID-19 crisis and while it is also not hard to understand that promoters want to/need to make a profit, if nothing else to pay whatever guarantees are made to the fighters that are competing, the circumstances, as well as the generally better value of the subscription model should be all the more reason to adapt. Further evidence of the pay-per-view model being less viable and needing to change can be seen in two recent pay-per-view offerings, the Jake Paul-Tyron Woodley rematch, which was produced by Showtime Pay-Per-View on December 18, which at a $60 price point produced just over 65,000 buys. The most recent pay-per-view offering, the Luis Ortiz-Charles Martin Heavyweight themed card, done by Fox Sports Pay-Per-View, with the marketing tag of it being a bargain for Boxing fans at $39.99 produced under 25,000 buys according to some estimates.

 

At the risk of being repetitive, I ask the promoters who continue to fight against adapting a simple question. How much evidence does one need? Perhaps instead of pay-per-view, the revenue that is hoped for from pay-per-view buys can be achieved by seeking out advertising sponsors and/or investing in marketing where a network across digital or traditional platforms may be able to see the viability of paying for rights to stage these cards. 

 

A brief observation in closing that might give a bit of insight for the reader as to why I feel as strongly as I do. First it is not merely a matter of saving money for me personally or consumers as a whole. The fact is, despite the progress networks like DAZN and ESPN+ have been able to make by proving that there is a new source of revenue for not just Boxing, but all of sports, which may be even more beneficial to promoters than the pay-per-view model was in time, Boxing remains one of the few sports that remains behind a paywall for many consumers.  In comparison, as some readers know, I am a sports enthusiast and try to watch as much as I can of the sports I do not cover. Simply put, I’m a sports fan.  This past weekend, I was, like many glued to the National Football League’s (NFL) Wildcard weekend, which over three days Saturday through Monday consisted of six games. All six games were scheduled where they would not overlap each other allowing viewers to consume as much of the games as they wished. I personally watched all six. Each network involved, advertised the other games that they would not be carrying on their platform and in general, speaking only for myself, I did not miss anything from any of the games, though in the interest of honesty with the reader, I did fall asleep during the Sunday night game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Kansas City Chiefs, but thanks to the benefits of a DVR, I was able to go back and watch what I missed. My point is, no such paywall structure is used for major team sports and even though all the networks, which carried these games and will continue to carry games throughout the remainder of the NFL Playoffs, though in one way or another are in competition with each other, all promoted each other’s games. It also goes without saying that the NFL as well as their television partners make significant revenue from advertising and sponsorships, which makes the idea of a paywall structure less viable. More importantly, it allows the sports fan the opportunity to watch the sport they love regardless of whether they may or may not be able to afford a premium price.

 

Now, obviously I’m not naĂ¯ve and I know that the cross-promotion these networks did in promoting each other’s games likely had to do with agreements with the NFL more than a gesture of helping each other, though I would like to believe in the way things are currently, that a gesture of good will also played a role in things. It is hard for me to understand however, why Boxing promoters cannot or will not see the potential for revenue streams that will replace pay-per-view revenue, but also allow the sport to be seen by as many eyes as possible regardless of whether a Boxing fan can afford to pay an often inflated price.  Some may suggest that one solution, which may reduce pay-per-view price points might be to reduce the purses that fighters are paid. 

 

While it is indeed true that most fighters on the top level of the sport earn millions of dollars each time they enter the ring to compete, I am against the idea that the solution is to reduce how much a fighter can make. The reality is Boxing is a combat sport and whether some want to believe it or not, fighters risk their lives each and every time they compete. It is not something to be taken lightly or treated as a joke. As such, I am and will always be in favor of a fighter being able to make as much money as they can while they can because you never know how long a fighter’s career might be.  What I am advocating for beyond wanting to see the paywall structure the sport has operated under for decades changed or outright done away with in order to have Boxing seen by as many viewers/eyes as possible is for the promoters that be in the sport to see the potential revenue that is being left by not adapting and that there is a way to ensure fighters can make the most they can, while at the same time making the sport and it’s biggest events accessible to all. Am I overly optimistic? To be fair, I have been accused of such over the years, but at the end of the day, I am really someone who bases his views on facts and evidence, and it is becoming more clear with each passing day that Boxing and more specifically, the “Hold Outs” need to adapt for the sport to grow and in order for those “Hold Outs” to not be left behind.

 

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

 

The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

 

Follow Beau Denison on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Beau_Denison