ENTERTAINING OR BARBARIC?
www.insideboxing.com

By STEPHEN S. JOHNSON


…“PROFESSIONAL BOXING”…

(IB March 24, 2003) - Over the years these two words have been responsible for as much controversy as religion and politics.

There is no reason to see any man pummel another into submission…is there?

Proponents believe the ability of one man to withstand both the physical and mental strength of another is both exciting and entertaining.

Opponents suggest that condoning such activity is barbaric and counter productive to man moving on in the scheme of evolution.

The ability of one man to overcome his own physical and mental tortures, while battling an opponent doing exactly the same thing, to some is exciting.

To others it is reprehensible.

The implementation of rules and regulations were deemed both appropriate and necessary. With rules, regulations and governing bodies established, there could be no obstacles to prevent two men from doing battle in an organized, sanctioned and professional way.

Promoters, judges, referees, timekeepers and the like would all be a part of the windfall known as “professional boxing”.

The boxer himself would entertain specific people in his entourage that supported the idea of him becoming CHAMPION OF THE WORLD.

This enabled the “gold diggers” and other leeches their opportunity. Childhood “friends” saw their chance. “Relatives” that were vaguely remembered (before the money started coming in) also joined the free-for-all.

The facility owner requires and gets a rather nice stipend for providing the venue where the action will take place.

Various food and beverage vendors benefit from the abilities of the “professional fighter”. Beer vendors alone do an astronomical business on any given “fight night”.

Hotels, casinos and area merchants benefit GREATLY whenever “fight night” appears in any given city. The Tyson vs Lewis fight had major cities BIDDING on the opportunity to host the event.

Radio, television and the print media take advantage since advertising is a must for attracting interest in a major fight. Big money is the most often heard phrase.

All these monetary benefits come from the abilities of the “professional fighter” who doesn’t even get the opportunity unless he has shown the ability to pummel…or be pummeled into submission.

So for those of you who still consider the ART of professional prize fighting barbaric, disgusting and a step backward in the progression of man…a little food for thought.

How many of you have friends, relatives and acquaintances that work for beer companies, hotels, casinos, radio, television, advertising, are parking lot attendants, facility vendors, concessions operators, are travel agents who book and make travel arrangements for “fight night” attendees.

You know anyone who works in a clothing store? Slick duds are a must if attending a major match in person.

Anybody you associate with work in a grocery store? If you’re having a few friends over for “the fight”, food and beverages are a must.

The list goes on and on for persons who have their hand in the huge pie known as “professional fighting”.

So the next time you are enjoying a fight on television or in person, take the time to reflect on the contribution the combatants you watch make to the community.

Consider the number of people that “get paid” because of the two guys in the ring who are really oblivious to what is going on outside the ring.

From the smallest college or neighborhood “smoker” to the 20 million dollar Tyson vs Lewis mega-buck bonanza, someone…and many someones are making a living.

Is pro boxing barbaric or entertaining?

You make your own decision.

But before you do, remember the list of family, friends and acquaintances that reap the benefits of the sport.

At this point the decision should become rather easy.