“One of the Worst Feelings in the World”: Boxing World Devasted as 38 Employees Could Lose Their Jobs After $2.2 Billion Worth Showtime Shuts Down It’s Sports Division

In an interaction with IFL TV, promoter Eddie Hearn claimed that certain newsworthy sources informed him Showtime Sports would quit boxing. However, Hearn praised Stephen Espinoza, the President of Showtime Sports, and lauded their current slate. In light of Hearn’s remarks, Paramount Global, the parent company of Showtime Sports, recently confirmed that Showtime will move ahead without boxing and other content following the end of 2023.

Having televised some of the most memorable fights in the history of the sport for 37 years, Showtime is now quitting boxing five years after HBO did. To recall some of the unforgettable matches on Showtime pay-per-view, one must talk about Mike Tyson vs. Evander Holyfield in 1996, Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquiao in 2015, and the recent Errol Spence Jr. vs. Terence Crawford among others. Following the sad declaration by Paramount Global, Dan Rafael has now revealed the uncertain future of a number of employees who worked for Showtime Sports, following which several fans took to X and reacted to it.

Fans show concern for employees who work at Stephen Espinoza’s Showtime Sports

While contractors and freelancers need not worry for the time being, according to journalist Dan Rafael, 38 employees could lose their jobs after Showtime Sports closes the department of boxing. In a depressing tone, taking to X, Rafael wrote, “I am told that all 38 employees of @SHOsports will lose their jobs as a result of the department being shuttered. That does not include contractors/freelance folks who work in production, on the crew, announcers.” Following Rafael’s tweet, a fan expressed that it was one of the worst feelings to lose one’s job. “Cruel reality for dozens of families today,” they added.

In this context, a fan stated they have since “cancelled showtime,” since they only had it for boxing.

Meanwhile, one recalled how one of their acquaintances lost their job when HBO exited boxing. “Sad days,” they added.

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In a similar tone, one said, “Sad times indeed Dan.”

On the other hand, one declared boxing was dead thanks to “all the Prima donnas.”

Anyway, in the wake of Showtime, worth $2.2 Billion exiting boxing, several professional boxers, and Oscar De La Hoya have joined hands to secure the continuous growth of the sport. Hopefully, the decision by Showtime will not negatively impact professional boxing. But, what is your reaction to the 38 employees possibly losing their jobs by the end of 2023? Let us know in the comments below.

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