Contradictions in Pay-Per-View Boxing
In a striking contradiction to his earlier commitments, Turki Alalshikh, who aimed to revolutionize the pay-per-view (PPV) boxing landscape, is now promoting an event that raises questions about the integrity of that promise. The upcoming match pitting Moses Itauma against Dillian Whyte has been branded as a must-see billing, yet fans find themselves questioning the logic behind the decision to charge for such a matchup.
Concerns Over Match Quality
While rising star Itauma undeniably possesses skill and talent, facing a seasoned fighter like Whyte—whose performances have noticeably declined since his encounter with Alexander Povetkin—does not inspire the fervor one would hope for in a premium event. Whyte’s recent bouts have failed to deliver excitement, leading many to speculate: is this really the kind of contest that warrants a pay-per-view price tag?
Turki’s Bold Initiative
Turki announced a bold initiative to dismantle the traditional pay-per-view model back in November, invigorating boxing enthusiasts who have long felt exploited by high costs and mediocre bouts. His previous events in Riyadh featured impressive fighters and stacked undercards, all without the exorbitant fees that fans had grown accustomed to paying. This approach was refreshing and much needed in a sport that requires rejuvenation.
Future of Pay-Per-View
However, with Itauma headlining against a past-his-prime opponent, the excitement has dwindled. Would fans willingly throw down their cash for this fight if they were not already invested in the fighters? If the answer is negative for many, it raises important questions about the viability of such a match in the pay-per-view ecosystem. Proponents of boxing anticipate innovative match-making rather than recycled bouts presented under false pretenses.
Time will tell if the future of pay-per-view continues to spiral into familiar pitfalls or embraces the high standards once set by Turki. If Itauma versus Whyte becomes the benchmark for PPV in 2025, the calls for reform will only grow louder.
The opinions articulated within this piece are those of Phil Jay, a seasoned boxing journalist with over 15 years of dedication covering the sport, and the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News since 2010.
About the Author
Phil Jay has extensive experience reporting on the boxing world, interviewing numerous champions and capturing the excitement of major fights as they unfold.
