Broadcasts
This weekend’s boxing broadcasts in the UK, especially by Sky Sports, served as a pertinent reminder of the significant value their investment in the sport holds. On Sunday evening, Sky aired the London card, featuring the highly-anticipated clash between Frazer Clarke and Fabio Wardley for the British heavyweight title. Sky had effectively built up anticipation for the fight through strategic promotion, providing Clarke and Wardley with prominent platforms on previous fight nights. Additionally, the decision to stage this event on a Sunday night of a bank holiday weekend was a clever move.
Although the fight seemed promising on paper, it was far from a blockbuster. However, once the fighters stepped into the ring, a remarkable spectacle unfolded. The intense battle that ensued was deserving of the historic title at stake. Watching it was an absolute delight and undoubtedly a major success for both Sky and promoter Boxxer, led by the talented Ben Shalom.
The Sunday Times recently released an article asserting that Boxxer had connections with Mahzar Majeed, a convicted cricket spot fixer. As a result, discussions were initiated between Boxxer and Sky Sports, their current business partner. Additionally, there have been rumors circulating, including in this column, about Sky’s potential role in boxing, especially considering the potential collaboration between promoters Eddie Hearn and Frank Warren at DAZN.
The way Wardley-Clarke exceeded expectations was a major success for Sky Sports. This is well-deserved recognition for the broadcaster, which has been a long-standing presence in the boxing industry for many years. When Hearn’s Matchroom left Sky for DAZN a few years ago, there were concerns that Sky may eventually withdraw from boxing altogether. However, rather than abandoning the sport, Sky Sports partnered with Boxxer and has continued to host regular events in the UK. Although there may be a noticeable decrease in the number of high-profile boxers participating in Sky shows, notably Anthony Joshua, this does not mean that the quality of the shows has suffered in any way.
This leads us to Wardley-Clarke. Despite not receiving the same level of attention as Joshua’s bout with Dillian Whyte for the Lonsdale Belt in 2015 (which was even a pay-per-view event), the fight turned out to be equally captivating, or even more so. It serves as evidence that star power is not always necessary. Sometimes, a perfectly matched British clash with a touch of genuine animosity can produce a delightful outcome.
In addition to their impressive efforts, Sky and Boxxer’s dedication to cultivating emerging talent is also commendable. Ben Whittaker, who showcased his skills and attracted significant attention on the undercard on Sunday night, is a prime example. He is on the verge of facing tougher opponents as he continues to generate buzz. Another promising rising star, Adam Azim, has been consistently supported by Sky. Although he did not fight on this particular card, the broadcast indicated that he will soon compete against Harlem Eubank for a European title.
It is evident that Sky is not the only one using these strategies. DAZN and TNT Sports also organize impressive UK events and have their own talented fighters who are being groomed and developed. However, these platforms are associated with established promoters who represent renowned superstars. In contrast, Boxxer (a relatively new organization) and Sky appear to be focused on long-term growth, which is undoubtedly thrilling for boxing enthusiasts. Despite ongoing rumors about Sky’s future involvement in the sport, all indications suggest that the broadcaster will remain committed to boxing.
Sky did an excellent job in handling the Wardley-Clarke card. A particularly gratifying aspect of the broadcast was the choice to forgo post-fight interviews with Wardley and Clarke in the ring right after their intense battle. Instead, both fighters were promptly taken backstage to receive immediate assessment and treatment from the medical teams. This information was effectively conveyed to the viewers at home.
Surprisingly, the show did not miss anything significant by excluding these interviews. In fact, it should be the standard practice not to immediately interview fighters right after they have endured intense physical activity for the past half an hour to 45 minutes. Conducting interviews in such a state is just as likely to result in incoherent or embarrassing statements as it is to capture a memorable promotional moment or a potentially viral incident. The top priority should be for the fighters to receive necessary medical attention and undergo thorough check-ups. They should be given the chance to let their nervous systems recover, have a meal, reunite with their loved ones, and even take a shower. Unless there are medical reasons preventing it, the headline fighters can always participate in a post-fight press conference where they can be questioned, analyzed, and discussed.
The BBC, known for producing a significant amount of boxing content in podcast and radio formats but seldom promoting the sport on their TV channels, recently released a four-part docuseries centered around Shane McGuigan’s gym and the fighters he mentors. Titled ‘Stable’, this series was filmed some time ago, prior to Daniel Dubois’ departure from McGuigan’s camp. Consequently, both Dubois and his sister Caroline make appearances, providing viewers with a captivating insight into the lives of the McGuigans, Chris Billam-Smith, Anthony Fowler, and other notable figures.
While there might not be groundbreaking revelations for die-hard boxing enthusiasts, the content is still highly recommended and covers a wide range of topics, including the contentious separation between Carl Frampton and both Shane and his father Barry, with some subjects carrying more gravity than others.
Boxing on the Box
April 6
Richardson Hitchins-Gustavo Daniel Lemos
DAZN
Coverage begins at 11pm
