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via Imago

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In the realm of boxing, a new kind of fad seems to be at an all-time peak. The world of influencer boxing, where internet sensations step into the ring, challenging the norms of traditional pugilism. This unorthodox blend of entertainment and athleticism has raised eyebrows and sparked heated debates among boxing purists. Eddie Hearn recently went on the record to divulge his thoughts on the matter.

Commenting about Tommy Furys controversial win over KSI, Eddie Hearn did not mince words. The unanimous victory in favor of Tommy Fury has left a lot of spectators puzzled. The bout was first declared a majority decision (56-57) in favor of Fury but subsequently; the judges changed it to a unanimous decision. KSI’s camp, however, labeled this decision a “robbery,” prompting inquiries directed at Eddie Hearn regarding his perspective on the match and the surrounding event.

Eddie Hearn Calls Tommy Fury Out

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In an exclusive interview for the OverLapp channel, Eddie Hearn was asked some hard-hitting questions. When asked about the two fighters who entered the ring recently, Eddie Hearn replied, “I mean he is a professional boxer but he’s terrible so like he’s absolutely swam the channel I mean he’s gone from making I don’t know 40,  50 Grand a fight to making three, four, five million wow to fight a YouTuber.”

Hearn also offered a different perspective. He saw these matchups not as a threat, but as a testament to the evolving nature of sports and entertainment. To him, it’s not about taking opportunities away from boxers, but rather expanding the horizons of the sport.

These events are often criticized for their non-traditional origins. According to Hearn, they inject fresh energy into boxing, attracting new audiences and rejuvenating interest in the age-old sport. “A lot of them are very unhappy about it. They feel that “I’ve worked all my life I’ve been boxing since I was six,” As far as I’m concerned, tough sh** really. It doesn’t work like that.”

He acknowledged the skepticism that swirls around these unconventional matchups. Hearn, with his characteristic confidence, defended this unique fusion of sports and entertainment. In his eyes, these YouTube stars, who have amassed colossal followings online, are just novelties, all for good entertainment and PPV.

Is Influencer Boxing More Popular?

Youtubers have stepped into the boxing ring because of the entertainment value it provides. For many, it’s a shocking transition – a leap from virtual fame to the gritty reality of combat sports. According to The Economic Times, The Prime Card’s influencer boxing event recorded a pay-per-view record of 1,300,000 purchases, akin to the 2018 KSI vs. Logan Paul bout. Despite DAZN’s pricing at $54.99 in the US and £19.99 in the UK, the event generated an estimated $32,000,000 from pay-per-view sales alone, excluding other revenue sources.

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Read More: “I’ll Be Doing Everything I Can”: Eddie Hearn Remains Stern on Making Chris Eubank Jr vs Conor Benn Fight Happen

Traditional boxers, some deeply rooted in the sport since childhood, find themselves questioning the fairness of it all. How can someone who gained fame through vlogs and viral videos suddenly share the spotlight with seasoned fighters who have dedicated their lives to the sport? It’s a sentiment shared by many within the boxing community.

Hearn’s comment emphasized one thing. Viewers would do anything to see their favorite influencers get into the ring. And influencers, in turn, take advantage of that purse and indulge in entertainment bouts.

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In conclusion, the marriage of YouTube and boxing might seem like an unlikely union. It’s undeniably redefining the sporting landscape. Whether you view it as a disruption or an evolution, there’s no denying that this fusion of worlds is here to stay. As fans and critics continue to debate its merits, one thing remains clear – YouTube boxing is breaking barriers. It is challenging conventions and making history, one match at a time.

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