The boxing world is abuzz with the upcoming undisputed light heavyweight championship fight between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol, now set to air exclusively on DAZN’s pay-per-view service for a price of $14.99. Previously, this highly anticipated matchup was available on ESPN+ at no extra cost to their subscribers. This shift raises questions about consumer behavior and whether the allure of the Beterbiev-Bivol clash is sufficient to motivate U.S. fans to switch platforms and pay for what they once could access for free.
One of the critical aspects influencing potential purchases of the DAZN event is its undercard. Featuring middleweight Chris Eubank Jr. facing Kamil Szeremeta, this undercard lacks the star power and excitement that typically drives viewer engagement. Many fans have voiced dissatisfaction regarding the inclusion of unknown fighters in the preliminary bouts, leading to skepticism about the value of the full event. With the highly anticipated bout of WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson against Joe Cordina canceled due to an injury, the appeal of the event has further diminished.
While Eubank Jr. may provide entertainment, particularly as a background fight while viewers prepare for the main event, his match alone isn’t enough to compel consumers to buy access to the pay-per-view. With limited mainstream appeal, it reflects a broader issue in event promotion where the undercard impacts the overall excitement and perceived value of a boxing event.
Consumer interest in boxing events is significantly influenced by the fighters on the card. In this case, unless viewers are dedicated followers of fringe contenders such as Fabio Wardley and Frazer Clarke, the undercard likely falls flat. The boxing audience thrives on recognizable names and gripping matchups—fights that generate buzz and anticipation. This is where DAZN might have missed a critical marketing opportunity. Promoting well-known fighters or compelling matchups, such as Ryan Garcia versus Devin Haney or Jaron Ennis against Brian Norman Jr., could have elevated the event’s status, making it a must-see for fans rather than a gamble.
The abundance of options in modern sports broadcasting means consumers are more discerning than ever. When an attractive fight like Beterbiev vs. Bivol is offered for free via ESPN+, the motivation to pay for DAZN’s offering diminishes significantly—especially in the absence of high-profile supporting contests. For many fans, the convenience of free access versus the tempting yet risky investment of $14.99 shapes their viewing decisions.
As DAZN navigates this complex landscape, understanding fan expectations and the importance of compelling fight cards becomes crucial. While Beterbiev vs. Bivol is a significant draw on its own, the surrounding context, including the quality of undercard fights, can make or break the financial success of the event. Ultimately, a thoughtfully curated card could not only enhance viewer satisfaction but also bolster subscription growth in a highly competitive boxing market.