Is Logan Paul versus KSI the future or the end of boxing? While most boxing fans have given it a resounding thumbs down, insiders on the business side (mainly, Eddie Hearn) might view it as a necessary evil. Sure, DAZN’s decision to broadcast this pseudo-celebrity boxing match Staples Center might seem desperate but its also given a White Claw-like buzz to a sport trying desperately to appeal to an audience that thinks Rocky Balboa is just Creed’s marble-mouthed trainer.
A Young King at Staples Center
The newly crowned WBC lightweight champion Devin Haney (23-0) will make his first title defense against Alfredo Santiago (12-0). Although the two-toned haired Dominican prospect is undefeated, this figures to be a “stay-busy” fight for the 20-year-old champ, who is looking to steal the show from the YouTubers and impress their Gen Z fans.
Coming to America
At the fight’s final press conference, Billy Joe Saunders threw a verbal jab at the social media stars but he did choose to make his US debut on the undercard which tells you something.
There’s been a lot of hype around the undefeated Englishman (28-0), and for good reason. He seems to be the total package who describes himself as a “sexy mofo.”
Saunders will go up against Marcelo “El Terrible” Cóceres (28-0-1), a testy Argentinian who could pose a challenge for the WBO Super-Middleweight’s reign.
Tales of the Tape | Devin Haney
How to watch
Come for the Haney and Saunders coming out parties and stay for the Paul-KSI comedy. The fights will be streamed on DAZN at 9 p.m. ET (6 p.m. PST).
Prediction
I think Vinny Paz said it best.
