Boxing on the Big Screen-Closed Circuit TV-Could live boxing thrive at Movie Theatres?

By Kevin Perry

Some of the greatest sporting events in history were boxing matches. A number of these events were broadcast on closed circuit TV. What intrigues me is that some fights at one time were shown on closed circuit at movie theatres. That trend however has diminished greatly with advances such as PPV television. Some bars host boxing PPV events, but the price per person (usually $15-20 per person) makes ordering a PPV and splitting the cost with your guests more cost effective. Based on the obvious popularity of the May clash between Oscar De La Hoya and consensus #1 pound for pound fighter Floyd Mayweather, we may see boxing on a movie theatre or an arena near you on the big screen. Or at least that’s what I’m hoping for. There is no denial that based on the numbers (De La Hoya vs Mayweather tickets sold out in three hours) this fight has the potential to be one of the most important fights in the history of boxing. Important yes, but important because of De La Hoya, not because of Mayweather.

This fight has historic implications written all over it for De La Hoya. He’s fighting a naturally smaller fighter who’s viewed as the top fighter in the sport. This won’t be the first time that Oscar will have been in the ring with the guy experts believe to be the best pound for pound fighter in the world. Remember Bernard Hopkins? Against Hopkins he was a long shot. The intrique here is that against Mayweather, fans think Oscar has a chance of winning. Winning this fight will put Oscar on the pedestal of being the sports top fighter inside and outside the ring. De La Hoya is likeable, Mayweather to the general public is invisible.

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