DAZN once aimed to eliminate pay-per-view in boxing, but recent events have left fans disillusioned. A pair of lackluster fight cards, broadcast back-to-back from New York City and Saudi Arabia, highlighted the challenges in captivating boxing audiences.
Despite high expectations, the fights failed to deliver excitement, with many bouts lacking competitive matchups and ending in unanimous decisions. The underwhelming performances raised questions about the quality of matchmaking and the impact of overpaying fighters.
Notably, the main event between Saul “Canelo” Alvarez and William Scull set a CompuBox record for the fewest punches thrown in a 12-round fight. The lackluster action extended to other bouts over the weekend, with multiple fights ranking among the lowest in punch output in CompuBox history.
Former boxers like Tim Bradley and Oscar De La Hoya criticized the current generation for prioritizing money over legacy, reflecting a broader sentiment of dissatisfaction among industry veterans. The focus on financial gain at the expense of competitive spirit has raised concerns about the sport’s direction.
The logistical missteps of the events, including venue restrictions and technical issues, further marred the viewing experience for fans and media alike. The failure to engage the audience effectively underscored the disconnect between promoters’ objectives and fan expectations.
Despite some redeeming aspects like Jim Lampley’s return and brief moments of entertainment, the overall sentiment was one of disappointment. The lackluster fights and organizational shortcomings highlighted the need for a renewed focus on delivering quality matchups and enhancing fan engagement in boxing.
Looking ahead, the fallout from these events may impact future matchups and promotional strategies in the sport. The repercussions of these lackluster performances could influence fighter contracts, fan loyalty, and the overall trajectory of boxing in the coming months.
As the boxing community reflects on the shortcomings of these recent events, there is a collective call for a return to the core values of the sport – competitive matchups, engaging performances, and a genuine passion for boxing that transcends financial incentives.
With lessons learned from this disappointing weekend, the boxing industry faces a critical juncture in redefining its approach to event planning, fighter compensation, and fan engagement. The challenges exposed by the “Pain-Per-View” experiences serve as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding the integrity and excitement of boxing for both current and future generations of fans.