Could boxing make a return to network TV?
The question has been raised many times over the years. Why can’t boxing be back on prime time network television?
There are several answers to this question; late starting times, not enough money to please promoters, fighters, sponsors, etc…
The rumors of a deal to air boxing on CBS on Saturday nights were addressed by Showtime Network Sr. VP and general manager of sports and event programming Ken Hershman during a media roundtable luncheon at the Palm West restaurant on Friday.
Hershman was quick to point out that no deal has been reached. “I can’t tell you if we’re close or not,” he said. “It’s a process and we’re working toward it.”
It's worth noting that CBS owns Showtime.
Hershman wouldn’t go into any details, but among the obvious issues facing a boxing card on CBS on Saturday nights is how to replace the advertising money earned from airing reruns of popular shows like CSI.
“How do you replace that revenue,” Hershman said. “That’s the challenge.”
The success of recent MMA cards on CBS has prompted discussions on whether boxing can be profitable on network television. “I don’t really know [if there’s a timetable],” Hershman said. “But I know CBS was pleased with two of the three MMA shows.”
Other topics addressed at the roundtable, which was also attended by Showtime's Gordon Hall and Nick Charles, Steve Farhood, Main Events CEO Kathy Duva, yours truly and other boxing notables, included upcoming fights on ShoBox and the progress of several Showtime fighters.
One fighter that generated some interesting debate was super middleweight prospect Andre Ward. Ward (18-0, 12 KOs) has been regarded by many as the next great super middleweight. His unblemished record notwithstanding, he hasn't fought anyone of note.
"[Ward] is done with the building stage," Hershman said. "He needs to make a major step up."
Adding in-fight punch stats for Showtime events was also discussed at the roundtable. CompuBox, which provides live punch stats for HBO, is contractually prohibited for doing so for Showtime.
Nothing is imminent, according to Hershman. "We are working on a system," he said. "It's not 100 percent, but we're working on it." - MARCUS HENRY
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