"Almost" free is right. Free TV is broadcast networks. Anything else costs. Cracked me up when someone said recently that it was good to see prospects like Gamboa and Kirkland on "Free' HBO. But to your point, yes, this is a good ESPN fight. Glad they picked it up.
I recall back when Ali used to defend his title on ABC, free network TV. Times sure have changed. But at least Wlad refuses to allow his title fights to be on PPV. HBO costs, sure, but $12 a month is not as bad as $49 for ONE fight card.
I agree 100%. I used to watch heavyweights like Shavers, Norton, Ali, Holmes, Jimmy Ellis, Jimmy Young, etc., mix it up on free TV. Those were the days.