DAZN and Canelo Alvarez have struck an historic deal.
Combat sports continues to evolve in new and interesting ways as the introduction of a new streaming platform is catching the attention of the sporting world. DAZN was a little known platform just a few weeks ago, but has since established itself as the new powerhouse in combat sports broadcasting. The new streaming service has already signed Heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua to a major deal as well as Bellator MMA. Now, in a massive power move by the service, they have signed Canelo Alvarez to a massive multi-million dollar contract.
Signing on to DAZN for a 5 year, $365 million, 11 fight deal, Canelo Alvarez has entered some pretty rarefied air as he is likely to collect double that amount working with the service. Considered to be one of HBO Boxing’s last major money making figures, Alvarez making the move DAZN has some pretty massive implications. Canelo Alvarez leaving HBO speaks to the reality that the former boxing powerhouse broadcasting has lost their biggest star.
Essentially, Canelo Alvarez signing with DAZN has become the nail in the coffin for HBO Boxing.
Dominating the boxing market during the 90s and early 2000s thanks to big stars like Floyd Mayweather, Manny Pacquiao, and Oscar De La Hoya, HBO Boxing was once a major source for the sweet science alongside Showtime Boxing. Now as Canelo Alvarez moves on to greener pastures it appears that HBO Boxing will be soon closing their doors on their combat sports broadcasting.
In one fell swoop, DAZN has become a major player in the combat sports world, and with their intentions of broadcasting both boxing and mixed martial arts events, a new day appears to be dawning in the fight game.
What do you think DAZN’s major deal with Canelo Alvarez?
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Managing Editor at Generation Iron, Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his Instagram, Twitter and Facebook to keep up with his antics.