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The boxing commentary curse strikes again, opens debate

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Upon a re-watch of the recent Robert Helenius vs Adam Kownacki clash, which saw a massive upset in favor of the underdog, a boxing commentary curse was a notable occurrence.

Brian Kenny not only put all his eggs in the Kownacki basked before and during the fight, but he stated Helenius had ‘shocked the world’ as the Finn grabbed a famous victory.

This has led to questions about the TV guys being championed far too early as analysts attempt to draw fans into their stories.

Not only was Kownacki outgunned by Helenius, but pre-fight, the Pole’s opponent – known as ‘The Nordic Nightmare’- was hardly mentioned.

Indeed the major networks have to learn from this, as what was taking sides is supposed to be off-limits.

Talking about Kownacki as if he was a world-beater was also a major no-no. Kownacki and Helenius were relatively evenly matched in the cold light of day.

I fancied the upset myself. So it proved in just the fourth round.

Boxing Commentary Curse

Kenny, obviously having to back up his own words, then had to call the triumph ‘shocking the world’, which was an unbelievable statement.

This has happened many times, with accusations rife on social media regarding other networks doing similar.

Sky Sports are targeted as the main culprits on UK shores, accused by disgruntled fans of consistently backing their own with no let-up.

Kid Galahad, who works with Eddie Hearn on a fight-by-fight basis, was called a drug cheat when appearing on the channel last time.

The Yorkshireman had worked hard to repair his reputation, and the incident happened years ago.

Some instances can also be deemed harmless. Commentators, along with supporters, can get caught up in the moment.

A prime example was when Frank Bruno claimed the world heavyweight title for the fourth time of asking in 1995.

Ian Darke, one of the best voices in the sport for decades, was emotionally involved in his position as Sky commentator for the fight.

Bruno was flagging towards the end of his battle with Oliver McCall, and it was almost as if Darke was shouting to him from his ringside seat.

At least 99% of those present at Wembley and watching on TV wanted Bruno to get over the line, in what could be one of the only cases when this kind of thing can be forgiven.

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