The world of boxing is undeniably dynamic, where the importance of undercards can rival that of the main event itself. The announcement made by Turki Alalshikh regarding the inclusion of a match between Jared Anderson and Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller on the undercard of the highly anticipated Canelo Alvarez versus Terence Crawford bout is a fascinating case study. Set to take place on September 13th, this event on Netflix is one fans are eager to scrutinize. The choices made about the undercard reveal a great deal about boxing’s current trends and fan engagement.
Assessing the Quality of Matchups
One has to question the rationale behind placing the Anderson-Miller fight on such a prestigious card. While the fight may initially appear as a resourceful move to save costs, given Miller’s age and his troubling recent performances, placing him in the spotlight again raises eyebrows. Miller’s lack of success in the ring—his last victory coming two years ago—coupled with a history marred by performance-enhancing drug (PED) controversies, casts doubt on whether he is a suitable opponent for a rising star like Jared Anderson.
Anderson, a promising young heavyweight, known for his power with 15 KOs from 18 wins, deserves to face competitors who can provide both a competitive challenge and a clean bout. Recommendations from pundits suggest fighters like Agit Kabayel or Richard Torrez Jr. as more appropriate sparring partners, ones who could bring out Anderson’s true potential without the tarnished history that Miller carries.
Fan Expectations and Market Demands
Boxing is a sport that thrives on fan engagement. Alalshikh’s comments indicate a clear awareness of this fact, stating, “From the beginning, I work from the side of fans. I care about what fans want to watch.” However, there appears to be a disconnect between this awareness and the fight being proposed. A reinvigorated fan base today demands not only competitive matches but also integrity in the sport. Bringing Miller back into the limelight could result in backlash, reducing interest in an event that should generate excitement.
Instead of evoking anticipation, the idea of Anderson fighting Miller might leave fans disillusioned. The negotiating table would be better served finding matchups that are relevant in today’s heavyweight landscape rather than echoing decisions made two or three years ago.
The Co-Main Event and Other Attractions
Interestingly, the fight that stands as a possibility for the co-feature could feature Abdullah Mason versus Sam Noakes for the vacant WBO lightweight title. This matchup could reinvigorate enthusiasm among fans who appreciate skillful, high-stakes bouts. If executed well, these intriguing pairings could generate substantial interest, serving to elevate the entire card.
Furthermore, Alalshikh’s mention of a robust prelim card with “six to ten” free fights signals an unusual approach aimed at maximizing viewership. This could potentially attract casual fans who might otherwise shy away from paying for a pay-per-view. By showcasing young, eager prospects hungry for recognition, the event could provide a platform for new talent to shine—aligning perfectly with what boxing fans often crave.
Strategic Timing and Broadcast Decisions
The strategic timing of the fights is also worth noting. The event is set for prime viewing hours, allowing it to compete effectively with other sporting events. Regarding the anticipated scheduling clash with UFC events, the decision-makers seem confident that stellar matchups could hold the audience’s interest. Alalshikh’s engagement with Netflix for broadcasting demonstrates an innovative pivot for boxing, tapping into a major streaming platform to reach audiences that might otherwise overlook such matchups.
While the excitement surrounding the Canelo vs. Crawford event will undoubtedly draw viewers, the decisions surrounding the undercard—especially the potential inclusion of Jarrell Miller—present a dilemma. By focusing on constructing a card that resonates with contemporary boxing fans, promoters could ensure a more thrilling experience that aligns with the apparent desire for credibility in the sport. Balancing fan satisfaction with strategic party decisions will be critical for the success of this event.