via Imago
Image Courtesy – Imago
via Imago
Image Courtesy – Imago
When you think of boxing, you might conjure images of sweat, gloves, and roaring crowds. Fierce punches. Gritty determination. Yet, something is changing, and it’s not within the ring. It’s the price tag attached to watching these epic battles. Shockingly, it’s not a mere number; it’s a reflection of a widening rift in the sport. Michael Benson, a prominent voice in boxing commentary, recently dropped a tweet. Its content? A revelation about the upcoming Canelo Alvarez vs. Jermell Charlo fight’s Pay-Per-View (PPV) price.
That figure, though just a couple of digits, might as well have been a left hook to boxing enthusiasts worldwide. Boxing, once the sport of everyman, now seems draped in a luxurious robe, unreachable to many. How did the sport shift from local gym rings to a premium spectacle?
Canelo Alvarez and the commercial crossroads
Michael Benson revealed the PPV price for the much-anticipated fight between Canelo Alvarez and Jermell Charlo to be a jaw-dropping $84.99. This revelation triggered a series of reactions from boxing fans, highlighting a myriad of perspectives concerning the sport’s commercial direction.
Initially, one fan expressed sheer disbelief at the high pricing, questioning the rationale behind such a steep charge to watch the event. It was clear that for him, the price point was a hurdle too high to leap over just for a few hours of entertainment.
who's paying that in their right mind
— AJ (@AST_ute) September 25, 2023
Transitioning from disbelief to a more comparative outlook, another fan acknowledged the star power of Canelo and its financial lure. He argued that unlike other big names in boxing, Canelo has the charm to single-handedly sell PPV shows. However, he also pointed out a rather grim reality that without a big name, events often turn into lackluster one-sided bouts that fail to justify high ticket prices.
canelo always has to carry the sport on his back, charlos can't sell ppv, is all on canelo, unlike tank, bud always need another big name to sell like canelo.
Better than paying that to watch a one sided whooping fight like bud v errol— Bruce lee (@JETKUNEDO1998) September 25, 2023
Furthermore, another user took a more societal stance, lamenting how boxing has drifted from being a working-class sport to a high-end entertainment outlet. The commercialization seemed to have alienated a chunk of its traditional fan base.
Boxing no longer for the working class.
— MSC 🫡 (@Kloppista_LFC) September 25, 2023
On a pragmatic note, one fan suggested fans seek alternative viewing venues such as theaters or sports bars, hinting at a communal viewing experience as a workaround to the hefty individual price tag.
Damn.. that's a lot. Y'all best go watch it at a theatre or sports bar near you.
— JoeyDanks95 (@Joeydankk95) September 26, 2023
Another keen observer humorously pointed out the obvious, stating that US fight fans seem to be getting a raw deal. The irony of the comment was not lost; it reflected a common sentiment that despite the love for boxing, the commercial model is gradually nudging many fans away.
US fight fans get ripped off😂
— ROBOT BOXING (@ROBOTBOXINGYT) September 25, 2023
Through these reactions, a complex picture emerges, illustrating the multiple facets of how modern-day commercialization intersects with the pure, undiluted passion for boxing. Each reaction, unique in its stance, pieces together a narrative of a community at a crossroads. Further pondering the worth and the future of their beloved sport.
Also Read: How Many Times Has Canelo Alvarez Failed Doping Tests?
What could be the happy medium where the sport retains its essence while adapting to modern-day financial necessities? Can a balance be struck to uphold the sport’s heritage while ensuring its prosperity?
Watch This Story: Everything We Know So Far About Canelo Alvarez vs. Jermell Charlo
