Who is this guy ? Is he powerfull in British boxing ? Has he got some tv dates, which channel ? Which fighters he currently promotes ? Is he doing anything beside prizefighter ? Any answers will be much appreciated !
Seriously surprised you've never really heard of him. The man has more fingers in more pies than anyone. Chairman of Leyton Orient FC and Matchroom Sport, who are responsible for bringing us Ten Pin Bowling, premier League Snooker and Darts. A promotional company that deals in more sports than just Boxing. He first came in to prominence in the 80's managing Snooker players such as Steve Davis and Dennis Taylor... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BliAPzEsao0 Was much more of a major player Boxing wise in the 90's, promoting the likes of Herbie Hide, Prince Naz, Eubank, Collins and Nigel Benn at some point or another. Since he got involved with the PDC Darts and became their chairman, its took off massively in this country and now does huge business. Seemingly the larger Darts has become, his interest in Boxing has waned, and now Matchroom only promote the occasional Friday Fight Night and Prizefighter cards on Sky Sports. His most recent card was the Simpson v Truscott fight that was called off after the venue was waterlogged. A very rich and wise man, who made the right investments at the right time and is largely responsible for the success of Darts in the 21st century. Check this excellent interview he did with the Bunce Hour a few months back... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU5FvIcv2CQ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qo27xoQ2e-M
Hearn seems like a great guy. he seems to have taken a step back from boxing recently although prizeifhgter was his idea (even if it was stolen) he has promoted some massive massive fights (bruno vs bugner, benn vs eubank 1 and 2).
He's with Sky Sports and does a few domestic shows apart from Prizefighter. Does he not promote Paul Truscott, Nigel Wright, David Dolan and Rob Norton?
I like Barry Hearn, he comes across as honest and realistic as a promoter could be, and has a sense of humour too. There was a great interview with him as well a month or so back in Boxing Monthly. I've been to a few of his shows (pre Prizefighter era) and I always enjoyed them - value for money with decent matches and not too much of the "hyped prospect v unknown import to be blown over" variety that filled up most of the shows on virtually all the Sports Network cards. Last one I recall going to was way back in 1999, which saw Michael Ayers (my fave domestic fighter) against Pablo Sarmiento in their first fight, Steve Robinson in action as well as Enzo Maccarinelli's pro debut, and not for a ridiculous over the top price either. I think it's a shame that Hearn only "dabbles" in boxing now instead of having a more substantial commitment. It's understandable as he has his fingers in many pies (some which are far more lucrative), but it's definitely boxing's loss.
What a terrific thread,and it brings back fond memories.I have had the distinct pleasure of dealing with Barry on a number of occaisions a few years back. I found him to be most hospitable,very clever and honest as the days long.I consider him a friend and although I have not spoken to him in over 5 years,I know if our paths cross again he will welcome me like it was just yesterday.I would do the same.Here's to you Barry!:cheers
Agreed:good. Before the Bunce hour was around, I had quite a few unfounded opinions on what some of the figures within the sport were like. Hearn came across as a really down to earth bloke and even Fwank Warren doesn't seem as bad as his reputation suggests, IMO.
met barry on numerous occasions because of the darts, top top bloke, my dad died not long ago and hes done alot for my family
