by Sean Close
“Boxing holds significant importance in the UK,” remarked Eddie Hearn, a prominent British boxing promoter. He mentioned that it ranks among the top sports in the UK, possibly even in the top three. Hearn, who manages Matchroom Boxing, expressed his efforts to establish a strong presence in the American boxing scene. However, he finds it challenging in 2024 due to the declining interest in boxing, except for exhibitions and novelty matches. Hearn emphasized the reliance on boxing media to garner attention in the United States.
Hearn highlighted the difficulties faced in developing American boxing talent, attributing it to the lack of coverage and interest from national and local media outlets in the country. He expressed disappointment regarding the underappreciation of current American boxers like Crawford and Wilder, whom he believed deserved more recognition and national acclaim for their skills and achievements. Hearn also mentioned upcoming talent like Devin Haney, noting the challenges they face in gaining media attention within the US sporting landscape.
Comparing the US situation to that of the UK, Hearn pointed out the stark contrast in media support for boxing. He emphasized the ease of attracting media coverage in the UK compared to the struggle in the US. Despite these challenges, Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing continues to promote notable fighters like Anthony Joshua, Katie Taylor, Dmitri Bivol, and Alicia Baumgardner, showcasing their talent on a global stage. Notably, Hearn highlighted upcoming bouts like the Richardson Hitchens vs. Gustavo Lemos match scheduled in Las Vegas this weekend, underscoring Matchroom’s commitment to promoting diverse boxing talents.
