At 94, Bob Arum is back in the boxing ring, and he's ready to make a splash with his company's new streaming deal with DAZN. After a challenging recovery from knee surgery, Arum is eager to showcase his company's most promising talent, Keyshawn Davis, in a high-profile main event in Norfolk, Virginia. This marks a significant return for Arum, who has been sidelined since September due to health issues. The excitement is palpable, and Arum is particularly thrilled to see Davis, an undefeated Olympic silver medalist and former lightweight champion, shine under the spotlight.
What makes this story even more intriguing is the personal connection between Arum and Davis. During Arum's layoff, he and Davis had regular phone calls, which helped maintain their bond. Davis, who has aligned with powerful managers and had a turbulent year, is now on a winning streak, which makes him a compelling prospect. Arum's enthusiasm for Davis is evident, and he believes the young fighter could become a big superstar in boxing.
The DAZN deal is a strategic move for Top Rank, as it provides an opportunity to grow and expand its reach. DAZN, a streaming company with a strong presence in the boxing world, has already secured deals with other prominent promotions. Arum's admiration for DAZN's owners, Len Blavatnik and Shay Segev, is clear, and he sees the potential for the company to become like ESPN for this era. With plans to expand into sports beyond boxing, DAZN is poised for growth, and Arum is optimistic about the partnership.
The article highlights the importance of co-promotion deals, which are crucial for growing the sport and brand. Top Rank's super-featherweight champion, Emanuel Navarrete, recently had a unification victory on DAZN, and Arum emphasizes the benefits of working with entities like DAZN. This collaboration allows for cross-promotion and a wider audience, which is essential for the sport's development.
Looking ahead, Arum is open to the idea of matching Davis against Oscar Duarte, a WBO-ranked 140lbs contender, if Shakur Stevenson chooses to move up in weight or vacate the belt. This potential fight adds an extra layer of intrigue to the upcoming card, which already features Davis' brothers and former welterweight champion Brian Norman Jnr. Arum's enthusiasm for the card is infectious, and he believes it will provide an engaging night of boxing for the public.
In conclusion, Bob Arum's return to the boxing scene is a significant moment, and his partnership with DAZN is a strategic move. The story of Arum's recovery and his excitement for Davis' potential is inspiring, and it showcases the passion and dedication that keep the boxing world alive. As DAZN continues to grow and expand, the future looks bright for both the streaming company and the boxing promotions it collaborates with.
