World Boxing Information can report that David Benavidez will defend his WBC mild heavyweight title towards Anthony Yarde in the principle occasion of The Ring IV on November 22 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Pay Per View regardless of earlier guarantees to abolish the apply.
The cardboard additionally options Devin Haney difficult Brian Norman Jr. for the WBO welterweight belt, Jesse Rodriguez vs. Fernando Martinez, and Abdullah Mason vs. Sam Noakes — all promoted underneath Riyadh Season. Artur Beterbiev has since been dominated off the cardboard via damage.
The PPV Promise and the Backtrack
The occasion is mired in controversy after DAZN introduced a $59.99 U.S. PPV worth, straight contradicting earlier assurances from Turki Alalshikh. Again in July, Turki instructed followers Saudi-backed boxing would “finish the pay-per-view mannequin” and that occasions can be free for DAZN subscribers.
“I stated it, and I meant it: boxing ought to be accessible, and no fan ought to pay further for fights in the event that they already subscribe,” Turki declared. But now, DAZN has unveiled a brand new ‘Ring Go’ tier — a subscription on prime of a subscription, paying homage to the NFL Recreation Go mannequin, forcing followers to pay further for occasions.
Fan Backlash Erupts On-line
Followers are livid. Social media exploded with criticism, calling the brand new system yet one more barrier to following boxing. Many see it as a betrayal after months of hype over Turki’s promise to make Saudi boxing world and fan-friendly.
Whereas the cardboard guarantees explosive motion with Benavidez, Haney, Rodriguez, and Mason, the PPV controversy casts a shadow over what ought to be a landmark worldwide occasion. The rollout raises questions on whether or not monetization missteps are undermining Saudi boxing’s world ambitions — and whether or not followers will belief future bulletins.
The Ring IV is shaping as much as be thrilling for when the primary bell rings — however off it, the backlash over PPV pricing ensures the story is about greater than boxing.
Concerning the Writer
Phil Jay is a veteran boxing journalist with over 15 years of expertise overlaying the worldwide battle scene. As Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing Information (WBN) since 2010, Jay has interviewed dozens of world champions and reported ringside on boxing’s largest nights.
[View all articles by Phil Jay] and study extra about his work in fight sports activities journalism.
