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This boxing world we inhabit, filled with politics and messy promotion-as-news, is in desperate need of some raw truth injected into its system– and I am just the one to do it. So, sit back and witness as I dispel the boxing ignorance. This week, we address comments and questions about the peculiar split-event Beterbiev-Bivol/Shakur-Cordina show, Saudi involvement in boxing, and more…
Shakur-Cordina, On PPV?
Hello Paul.
When I saw that Matchroom was planning to feature Shakur Stevenson vs. Joe Cordina as the main event of a DAZN PPV with the rest of the Beterbiev-Bivol undercard, and airing Beterbiev-Bivol on ESPN+, I couldn’t believe it. Who would be foolish enough to buy that show without the one fight (Beterbiev-Bivol) that would actually make it worth buying? It’s a baffling move to kick off the Matchroom-Stevenson alliance. My guess is that the sales in the US won’t even reach five digits. What do you think?
– Jerry from Chicago.
Hello Jerry.
It’s absolutely nonsensical. While Top Rank has the rights to Beterbiev fights, one would assume that Matchroom could have arranged some kind of broadcast deal to include Beterbiev-Bivol in their DAZN PPV show. There’s no way Shakur-Cordina will perform well on pay-per-view. It makes me wonder if Saudi funding played a role in Matchroom signing Stevenson. Their first fight in the 2-fight deal is likely to result in significant financial losses for Matchroom. The split-event format is also unfavorable for fans who want to see the entire event, as they will have to pay twice to watch it all. However, it may benefit those who only want to see the main event and not the filler fights below it.
After The Gravy Train…And A Thanks
As a long-time boxing fan of over 50 years, I have witnessed various trends come and go.
Unfortunately, the sport seems to be at a potential low point now.
Although the deep pockets of Saudi Arabia have delivered some anticipated matches, I question how many media companies will continue investing in a sport with a shrinking fan base and individuals selling PPV exhibitions as boxing. Your article on the possible end of the Saudi influence in boxing is outstanding and essential reading for any serious fan. It will be interesting to see if other writers pick up on the ideas in your story and expand on them.
Thank you.
– John
Hello John.
I deeply appreciate your kind words. It’s often a thankless task to speak my truth in a way that may have an impact. My media colleagues rarely acknowledge my work, and some actively exclude me from discussions. Even those who support me do so privately to avoid backlash. There’s little financial gain in what I do. The only satisfaction I have is knowing that my words may resonate with some, although they are often stolen by those with larger platforms. This has been my reality for 17 years. When readers like yourself reach out and validate my work, it means a lot.
Regarding the Saudi situation…
There are many reasons why this partnership may harm boxing in the long term. One overlooked risk is the instability of Saudi interests, which are subject to the whims of Prince Mohammed bin Salman. If we become dependent on their funding and influence and they suddenly pull out, where does that leave us? How do we rebuild when we have severed connections with the real world? The Saudis have no genuine commitment to boxing; it’s a fleeting investment for them. This Turki/Saudi deal is simply a short-sighted money grab with no consideration for the future.
Have a question (or feedback) for Magno’s Bulging Mail Sack? The best submissions will be featured in the weekly mailbag segment on FightHype. Send your submissions to: paulmagno@theboxingtribune.com.
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