There was a time when the sweet science was governed by the axiom, As the heavyweight division goes, so goes boxing. Now, in the United States, the rule of thumb is, As HBO goes, so goes boxing. No network has ever been associated with a sport to the degree that HBO is associated with boxing. And no network has ever set the agenda for a sport to the extent that HBO sets the agenda for boxing. HBO has the single biggest boxing budget in the world. Its one of the few places that a fighter and promoter can go to make big money in the United States and, for many Americans, their only exposure to boxing. Indeed, most of the public and media are unaware of a fighters existence unless he fights on HBO. Most big fights in the United States happen if and when HBO chooses to televise them. In most sports, athletes with talent succeed. In boxing, a good or bad manager, a powerful or weak promoter, a competent or incompetent matchmaker can spell the difference between success and failure. But the most dominant force of all is HBO. That sort of power demands scrutiny. Indeed, one can make a case that, while HBOs primary obligations are to its subscribers and Time Warner shareholders, it also has a fiduciary obligation to boxing by virtue of its power. This article is long. It will be posted in three parts over a three-day period. No one is required to read it. Anyone whos concerned about the future of boxing might take the time to do so. .... [url]http://www.secondsout.com/headlines/main-headline/hbo-and-the-state-of-boxing--part-one[/url]
Very interesting article and his “presentation of fights has gotten stale" was spot on. Fresh and interesting announcers/hosts was a good idea too. Yeah Haymon probably does carry clout when he has People like Beyonce whom have the power to cripple any entertainment entity:yep I would add though that interest can be instilled from seemingly the most unflamboyant fighters. For instance, most mma guys just dont seem as naturally flamboyant as boxers but they get the job done in the ring and fans seem to really appreciate simple but inspiring reality. Actually it almost seems that the two sports may require differing personalities and/or mental gifts. Networks shouldn’t only be more imaginative in instilling interests in fighters but become more sustainable in producing NEW fighters. You got to plant some seeds and rotate your fields. It don’t matter where they come; just look at the near cult status of Roberto Duran. Yep no more Leonards and Durans and its partly because culture has changed and good boxing gyms/coaches run few and for between. A lot has to do with the sexual revolution and the porn industry finally at the threshold to observe the catapulting of weaker characters skills and physiques. Oh and addiction to all the crap that HBO and SHO t.v. shows is detracting from wholesome entertainment like good ol boxing. You just cant have it both ways.
