British promoter Eddie Hearn, the mastermind behind Matchroom Boxing, recently shared his thoughts on the state of boxing in the UK compared to the US. Hearn believes that boxing is a major sport in the UK, ranking in the top three or top five, while in the US, it struggles to attract attention unless it involves a novelty fight. Hearn expressed his frustration with the lack of media coverage and recognition for American boxing talent, highlighting the difficulties in growing US talent in a country where boxing is not a top priority for the mainstream media.
Hearn pointed out the struggles of American fighters like Terence Crawford and Deontay Wilder, who he believes should be national superstars given their talent and accomplishments. Despite their success in the ring, Hearn lamented the lack of media coverage and support from major outlets in the US. He also mentioned rising star Devin Haney, who is on the cusp of a major fight with Ryan Garcia, but faces challenges in breaking through to the national media due to boxing’s lower standing in the sporting hierarchy.
The Role of Media in Promoting Boxing
In the UK, Hearn highlighted the difference in media coverage, noting that a press conference in the UK would attract the attention of every major media outlet in the country. This level of coverage and support is invaluable in promoting fighters and events, creating a buzz and generating interest among fans. While Haney and Garcia’s upcoming fight is expected to draw attention, Hearn emphasized the importance of consistent media coverage and support for boxing to thrive in the US.
Despite the challenges faced by American boxing talent, Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing has established itself as a powerhouse in the sport. With fighters like Anthony Joshua, Katie Taylor, Dmitry Bivol, and Alycia Baumgardner under his promotional banner, Hearn has proven to be a formidable force in the world of boxing. Even beyond English fighters, such as Brooklyn’s Richardson Hitchins, Hearn continues to showcase top talent and deliver exciting matchups to fans around the world.
Looking Towards the Future
As boxing continues to evolve and face new challenges, promoters like Eddie Hearn play a crucial role in shaping the sport’s future. By navigating the complexities of media coverage, promoting talented fighters, and delivering compelling matchups, Hearn is positioning Matchroom Boxing for continued success. While the landscape of boxing may differ between the UK and the US, the passion and dedication of promoters like Hearn are driving the sport forward and ensuring its longevity in the competitive world of combat sports.