By Ian Mcneilly BoxRec News understands that Adam Smith, long serving boxing broadcaster and commentator, will take a step up in the Sky Sports' organisation to become their Head of Boxing.Whatever one thinks of Smith's broadcasting style, the man is obviously a passionate and knowledgeable fan of the sport - a good base from which to start. However, his job description will be very different and require new qualities, including tough negotiating skills with experienced promoters, some of whom he might already be on very friendly terms with. Much of that bonhomie will have to go out of the window if he is to ensure boxing followers are to get value for money. As a fan though, Smith will surely have an excellent insight into what his fellow fans want - and which matches are not of the quality required to be sponsored by subscribers' fees. Chris Brown, an executive producer who was in charge of boxing at Sky, was reported to have been escorted out of Sky's Isleworth HQ in September after being suspended from work during an investigation into his treatment of Sky's boxing staff. Sky refused to comment then due to an ongoing disciplinary enquiry. Presumably, the broadcaster will make the situation clear when announcing Adam Smith's promotion. BoxRec News understands that Adam Smith, long serving boxing broadcaster and commentator, will take a step up in the Sky Sports' organisation to become their Head of Boxing. Whatever one thinks of Smith's broadcasting style, the man is obviously a passionate and knowledgeable fan of the sport - a good base from which to start. However, his job description will be very different and require new qualities, including tough negotiating skills with experienced promoters, some of whom he might already be on very friendly terms with. Much of that bonhomie will have to go out of the window if he is to ensure boxing followers are to get value for money. As a fan though, Smith will surely have an excellent insight into what his fellow fans want - and which matches are not of the quality required to be sponsored by subscribers' fees. Chris Brown, an executive producer who was in charge of boxing at Sky, was reported to have been escorted out of Sky's Isleworth HQ in September after being suspended from work during an investigation into his treatment of Sky's boxing staff. Sky refused to comment then due to an ongoing disciplinary enquiry. Presumably, the broadcaster will make the situation clear when announcing Adam Smith's promotion.
This will really benefit Hatton promotions. Smith and Ricky are good friends and go out for meals all the time etc. Expect to see many **** Hatton shows on a weekly basis.
His first move will be to completely ban the use of the word "round" which will be replaced by the word "session". "Hey guys it's two letters longer so will make us sound cleverer!"
I don't know who the previous head was, but it's a good role for Smith as he's a boxing fan and seems to understand the sport and the fights fans want to see.
This is good news. It's actually what HBO are lacking...someone who loves and is in touch with the ins and outs of the sport, who can act as a liaison between the sports people at Sky and the promoters. Good news overall IMO.
