How do we go to the next level? Well, that’s the question at hand. With the emergence of Mixed Martial Arts and the continued success of the UFC (as a business model) how does boxing continue to carve out it’s niche in the MMA fueled fight game? Everywhere you look there is a new MMA show or division of MMA being developed. Kids are now flocking in by the thousands to see amateur MMA competitions and purchasing MMM memorabilia by the millions. MMA has become a permanent staple in our fight culture raking in a whopping 144 million dollars in PPV and doing close to a billion dollars in total revenue. For an art that’s been around for quite sometime, and a business model that has most recently been successfully re-structured, how do you compete with that?

Well in the words of a close friend, the answer is simply difficult!

Now for the sweet science. What has truly been the problem with the sport of boxing going to the next level? After all, its one of the oldest American sports in existence comparative to American baseball and football. We have our superstars, our superbouts  and our flashy personalities to accompany our beloved sport. We successfully grossed an estimated 100 million dollars in PPV, we have bragging rights about one of the most anticipated sporting events in history ( Mayweather Vs. Pacquiao) and we have one of the most internationally successful icon’s , who i personally refer to as Boxing’s Bruce Lee ( Manny Pacquiao). We compete on two of the biggest networks (HBO and Showtime) on cable access television and have had some of the most politically involved athletes to date.  So the question remains, why haven’t we gone to the next level? My answer….business structure.

1) Boxing has failed to implement a business model that is equally successful and profitable for everyone involved,  2) Boxing has failed to capitalize on marketing, merchandising and promotional opportunities, 3) Boxers are poorly represented by unqualified business representatives (managers) and, 4) Boxers have failed to take more responsibility for their images and careers.

Needless to say, If we rectify these particulars, we should improve the overall business of boxing. Once we repair the business model, then we should start to see an immediate turn around in attendance and fan base. Our numbers prove that their is still a love for boxing and our international popularity seals the deal. Thanks Manny!