the successful “masquerade” of exhibition boxing fights

The first, 44, is a living boxing legend: world champion in five different weight categories, he displays the impressive track record of 50 victories (including 27 by KO.) and remains undefeated. The second, 26, has only one professional fight (lost by split decision) and has made himself famous for his humorous videos posted on the Internet. Retired ring star Floyd Mayweather will face youtubeur Logan Paul in an exhibition match on June 6 in Miami (United States).

In how many rounds will the fight take place? Will boxers wear a helmet? How big will their gloves be? For the moment, no rule has been set. We just know that the event, organized by Mayweather Promotions, Fanmio and the Showtime channel, will be offered in Pay Per View (pay-per-view). The real question for fans of “noble art” is how long will the “Cat Floyd” play with the “Logan Mouse” before knocking it down?

“On the pugilistic level, this fight has absolutely no interest”, slice Chérif Sobgho, sports coach and ex-professional boxer. So why organize this meeting which already promises to be one of the most unbalanced in the history of boxing? For the money, answers Chérif Sobgho:

“The goal of promoters is to offer a show likely to attract as many audiences as possible and achieve maximum profits. They are businessmen above all. With the spectacle fights, they found the right vein. “

In fact, this is not the first time that this type of match has been organized. With, at the end of the day, astronomical gains for the combatants. On April 17, Jake Paul, Logan’s younger brother, also Youtuber, faced Ben Askren, a former MMA (mixed martial arts) fighter. “Askren fell by K.-O. technique in the first round. He made a fool of himself, but he won $ 500,000 (411,000 euros) in less than three minutes. For this price, who would refuse to go? Personally, I sign. To say otherwise would be dishonest ”, says the sports coach.

Read also Behind a boxing match, the well-oiled business of two YouTube stars

” A lack of respect “

In terms of image, apprentice boxers also have everything to gain. By challenging professional athletes, they take the position of the brave challenger who accepts to put themselves in danger. But for Chérif Sobgho, this risk-taking is limited: “These are very controlled fights. The referees keep a watchful eye. And then we talk about boxing matches, not MMA where the technical palette is much more varied. These YouTubers are not crazy! ”

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