You used to see the old champs, notably Ali, spar many exhibitions either for charity or otherwise, but why the extinction today? Are the fighters not famous enough to pull in the dollar? Can they just not be bothered? Or is it a fear of being exposed? Also, when did the decline of the exhibition begin?
Tyson was set do exhibitions starting 06, where he would go all over the world and fight various people, it ended after one fight, some say it was a lack of funds, others say it was Tyson legal troubles and unwillingness to want to do it anymore. Back in the day boxing was more popular, and most Heavyweight champions were looked at as one of the most important figures in the world, it started with Dempsey in 1919, and ended with Ali in the 70's. Tyson might be the only fighter out there that could command big crowds through exhibition, but I dont think he has the dedication or desire to stick with it.
Television and Internet. Back in the old day, your best chance of seeing a fighter was either seeing one live or an exhibition. Since television started showing more and more fights, there has been less demand on exhibitions. And obviously, boxing's declining popularity played a role as well. What i think is a pity is that ring introductions seem to have vanished. During Foreman vs Holyfield, Ali and Frazier were honorably introduced but that's the last time i recall that ever happening. I liked that tradition. Even in movies, for instance Joe Frazier's appearance in Rocky, was great.
