Having a network with such a vested interest in a single division, in this case Showtime with 168, really seems to be a necessary condition. HBO has it with welterweight, but that's too star studded to be put into a format like this, as others have noted.
Each and every one of the 5 opponents for Kessler are far better than anyone he has ever BEATEN!! (maybe exception of Abraham who is vastly over rated)
It was my understanding that everyone moves past the first fight. You hae to read the rules to this tournament and the point system. I believe everyone fights 3x.