This is also the third (big life events always come in threes, right?) in a series of 2015 circumstances that is bringing boxing back to the mainstream. First is the networks. NBC announced many TV fight dates this year. Now, the network has dabbled in returning to boxing every few years since the heyday of the 80s, but this time, it marks the biggest commitment. Al Haymon actually is having his fighters fight real fights, as a part of these cards, which is impressive. CBS then followed suit, and will be rejoining. This has not happened in 25 years. Two big networks showing fight cards on weekends, in prime time, no less. Some are day fights,while some are night fights. I cannot recall prime time championship boxing on network TV since I was 8 or 9 years old.
CBS does need to up their game, however. The CBS SN card in New York last weekend was disgraceful. Those were 6 men who had no business appearing on TV. This was a local baroom card. They even wasted fans time by mentioning the ridiculous belt that was being fought for in one of the bouts. However, CBS itself has already looked to be increasing it's profile, and they were quite good at covering boxing back in the day. It may not be Tim Ryan and Gil Clancy, but it will liekly be someone good. I vote for Rich Marotta and Dan Goossen. Old school enough to know their stuff, and have experience, but not so old that they have been out of it.
The second occurrence that is helping boxing to be relevant again is Deontay Wilder. I know it doesn't seem a big deal now, but an American who has won atitle belt, Olympic medal, and has a couple of natural foreign foils to go against is going to be exciting for a while. He is also promoted/managed by Haymon, meaning his network TV debut could be just around the corner. If Wilder does anything other than suffer back to back brutal KO losses, there will be interest in him for years to come. In fact, if those networks are smart.
Lets be honest, Mayweather and Pacquiao do not need boxing to return to the mainstream to affect their pocketbooks. They are the only two fighters whos earning power will not change. they are routinely the top two earners in all of sports. However, by this time in June, the average sports fan will have had boxing thrown at him quite a bit. This will bring new fans, and new discussions of the sport taking place on social media. THAT is what will return boxing to the mainstream. Now, I just hope it ends up a good fight.
Chris Strait
www.convictedartist.com
