Last night, I tuned into a boxing match. Not something I’d typically do. But it wasn’t just a boxing match. It was the evolution of sports entertainment. Sure, there were interruptions in the live-stream (welcome to the working prototype of any new venture ??), but the accessibility and buzz around this event and in the weeks leading up were enough to get me hooked. If this had been on a traditional paid service, I would have never even considered. This wasn’t just about Jake and Mike – yes, they were the hook for a cultural moment. But (putting my media hat on) this was also about watching real-time how sports entertainment is being reshaped by making it accessible to new audiences and turning it into an event that can live in various formats across platforms. Pairing Jake Paul’s Gen Z appeal with Mike Tyson’s legacy fandom bridged generations, while the cultural conversation amplified the reach. The magic sauce: The mix of virality, storytelling, and accessibility. And let’s not forget the biggest growth opportunity: women’s sports! Sure, the few tech glitches were annoying, but to me they’re a small hiccup in what feels like a pivotal moment for the future of sports media. I had a good time. #netflix #CreatorEconomy
This is a nice way to look at it, I particularly agree with the Inclusion angle and the bridging of fandom. Not happy about the staging of the fight, and the information that is leaking around this. It was WWE all over again with Mike getting a nice paycheck for lasting 8 rounds as a punching bag for someone, who let’s be honest, doesn’t deserve to be In that ring. This isn’t a good look for boxing. Yes the marketing was sensational, had me excited… the execution of the event itself was a disappointment. As someone who enjoys sports, I felt like we all got caught with our pants down.
The storytelling was phenomenal. I enjoyed it, but I could have gone my whole life without a glimpse of those cheeks ???? Seriously, the women's match had me on the edge of my seat. I also loved the respect and restraint Paul showed the Legendary Mike Tyson. I appreciated Mike's self motivation and taking pride in himself and who has become. I also had joy and for a split second the nerve to ask [Brace yourself] what bill or bomb crept by in the night of distraction. I'm not looking for it today though - I need joy and rest as resistance today.
I did the same! So off-brand, but it felt right ?? And let’s be honest, the women’s match was by far the most engaging to watch!
I absolutely loved it. Totally align it will reshape HOW and WHO tunes into Sports and that LIVE TV continues to have a place. If it had been on ESPN I would not have been there. If people wanted to see a "real fight" they should have watched Mario Barrios vs. Abel Ramos for the welterweight title. That was the real nail biter. ?? .
Well said. I would probably never have watched it either unless these elements collided
Jessica Berger, evolution of sports infused with storytelling, accessibility captured your attention.
I did not imagine this for you ??
Video Strategy for Social Enterprises, B-Corps, And Non-Profits | Teacher, Consultant | Obsessed With The Link Between Creativity And Impact
1 周It's interesting. Seems fans of combat sports hated this, and those typically not drawn to boxing, liked it. I wouldn't call it an evolution, more like a side offering, closer to pro wrestling.