Top Rank CEO Bob Arum has weighed in on the state of boxing following a weekend of disappointing cards — and he’s not pulling any punches. In a candid conversation with media, the legendary promoter blamed guaranteed mega-money deals for sucking the life out of boxing’s biggest nights.
Arum was particularly critical of recent high-profile events from New York and Riyadh, which he labelled “agonizing” and “not entertaining.” The veteran promoter praised Naoya Inoue’s thrilling victory over Ramon Cardenas as a rare bright spot in what he sees as a worrying trend.
“The incentive is gone,” Arum said bluntly. “These guys are getting huge money up front, and the safest way to protect that next payday is to avoid risk. That’s not boxing — that’s business.”
💵 Guaranteed Purses, Flat Performances
With fighters like Canelo Alvarez reportedly earning $50 million for one fight and already signed for a $100 million payday against Terence Crawford, Arum believes there’s no longer any need to entertain.
“Canelo wasn’t in there with a dangerous opponent last Saturday. Why would he risk anything when the Crawford fight is already signed?”
The concern extends to Devin Haney, whose performance against Jose Ramirez was labelled “a disgrace” by Arum.
“If you’re Haney and you’ve already got a big-money fight lined up with Garcia, why engage at all? But that’s bad for boxing.”
🥊 Can Canelo vs. Crawford Deliver?
Despite his criticisms, Arum sees potential in the Canelo vs. Crawford showdown — but only if Canelo decides to show up to fight.
“Terence always fights. If Canelo really comes to fight too, it could be a terrific clash. But based on recent performances, I wouldn’t pay to watch.”
Bloody Media will be tracking every development in this story — because for boxing to survive, the fighters need to stop coasting on contracts and start fighting with purpose again.
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