Eddie Hearn spoke to Boxing Social and gave his insights into the termination of PBC’s contract with Showtime, the ever-evolving landscape of boxing broadcasters, and previews of upcoming fights are unveiled.
It’s been confirmed or heavily rumored by Dan Raphael that PBC’s contract with Showtime isn’t being renewed…
Stressing the importance of Showtime and personalities like Stephen Espinoza, Hearn says, “We need Showtime, we need Stephen Espinoza in boxing. People are passionate about the sport, pushing the sport, spending money on it.”
“So there’s a lot of people running around celebrating, you know, celebrating the end of Showtime in boxing. But the reality is we need Showtime, we need Stephen Espinoza in boxing.”
People are passionate about the sport, pushing the sport, spending money on the sport. So it’s a huge blow to PBC, but it’s also a huge blow to boxing to lose Showtime from the sport.”
“It solidifies really that the two players in US boxing now are DAZN and ESPN. And PBC’s job now is to look for another broadcaster.”
Hearn hints, “PBC will look for another broadcaster. If you have a broadcast deal right now, you’re in a great position.”
Leigh Wood vs. Josh Warrington
Focusing on the Leigh Wood vs. Josh Warrington showdown, Hearn exudes excitement. “This feels like an old school throwback fight,” he comments, emphasizing its significance in today’s boxing landscape. The two fighters are gearing up for what promises to be a nail-biter.
“Can you see anything else other than an absolute classic or a war?” Hearn rhetorically asks, setting the tone for what’s anticipated to be an exhilarating fight.
A tidbit that stands out? “This is the first time that Wood will head into the fight as a bookie favorite since February 2021 against Reece Mould,” pointing to the underdog story that’s been shaping up for Wood.
Rising Stocks and Future Fights
Hearn touches upon the rising stock of Josh Warrington post his defeat to Lopez. Questions linger on whether Warrington can reclaim his top-contender status, especially with his upcoming clash against Leigh Wood.
Warrington’s tenacity is undeniable, Hearn observes, “Josh Warrington is one determined little son of a gun.”
The buzz around Anthony Joshua vs. Deontay Wilder is unavoidable. Hearn acknowledges potential site hosts in Qatar and the UAE, emphasizing the fight’s global appeal. “We’ve had three separate countries approach us for this fight. When you get a fight like Fury against Usyk getting made, it makes everyone else go, come on let’s get ours made now,” Hearn comments, indicating the shared eagerness of all parties involved.
Wrapping Up: Future Ventures and Matchups
Touching on upcoming prospects and matchups, Hearn expresses enthusiasm. From Conor Benn’s ring return to potential clashes like Chris Eubank Jr, the future of boxing looks engaging and eventful.
Showcasing boxing’s future landscape, Hearn hints, “Even if the numbers are different, if there’s an appetite from the fighters to make it happen, most of the time it will happen.”
Full interview:
