I appreciate it. If you look at places where it’s still more popular, like the UK and in spots in Europe, they tend to treat it more like big-time entertainment with big entrances and light shows and such. (True, it’s also popular in Mexico and they’re way more old-school in approach, but I think without the bells and whistles you don’t have any chance of building younger fans.)
You are undoubtedly correct. I even have trouble going to baseball games in the USA where I have to watch fake chickens and mooses, etc., perform as mascots. Now that I think of it, I haven't gone to a major-league baseball game in over 10 years. I still go to some amateur boxing shows around here (Seattle, WA USA) where I enjoy watching the intensity of the participants without all the distractions.
But there would no boxing without the 'sheet'. You want to be a pro, you need to play the whole game, just boxing is not enough, and has not been arguably since both of us were born.
As to baseball all you have is the Mariners anyway, so little loss there. *From Puget Sound area too...…..
PERFECT!!! Don't forget wearing the 40 pound costume into the ring as Wilder did...so stupid!!! Just fight...and never mind the BS!!!
If I had a time machine and could go back and program the music, I'd choose the Very Lynn WWII chestnut "We'll Meet Again" for some big-money 90's Don King promoted fights like Lewis-Holyfield I.