Showtime Boxing Program to End in 2023: A Look at the Past, Present, and Future of the Sport

Showtime announced on Tuesday that it will be ending its boxing program at the end of 2023, marking the end of an era for the network that has brought some of the best fights and greatest fighters into our homes for 37 years. The decision comes as a blow to boxing fans who have enjoyed countless memorable moments on the network over the years.

The final Showtime boxing event will feature super middleweights Demetrious Andrade and David Benavidez in a pay-per-view event on Nov. 25, with a potential show in Las Vegas on Dec. 9. This marks the end of a journey that began in 1986 when Marvelous Marvin Hagler defended his middleweight title against John “The Beast” Mugabi in the first Showtime broadcast.

Paramount president/CEO Chris McCarthy cited the evolving landscape of the world as a reason for the decision, noting that Showtime will now focus its resources on original programming. This move leaves ESPN as the only major player in the U.S. regularly broadcasting boxing, with streaming service DAZN facing challenges in its approach to the sport.

The boxing community now faces a crucial moment to reevaluate and revitalize the sport. With the exit of Showtime and HBO from the boxing scene, there is a need for a new, integrated approach to promote and showcase the sport. This includes better matchmaking, improved marketing, updated rules, and a focus on creating meaningful and competitive fights.

While the future of boxing may be uncertain, there is hope that this moment of transition could lead to a new era of growth and success for the sport. It will require collaboration and innovation from all stakeholders to ensure that boxing remains a vibrant and exciting part of the sports world for years to come.