Anthony Joshua signed on the dotted line with DAZN in what could be a massive gamble for the streaming service.
The British former two-time world heavyweight champion inked an exclusivity contract that will see him feature on DAZN Pay Per View in the UK. Everywhere else in the world will be able to see AJ in action off the paid platform.
But with a massive rematch against Oleksandr Usyk around the corner, DAZN is banking all their marbles on Joshua, scoring a revenge victory.
If he doesn’t, and the bookmakers don’t think he can, DAZN could be left with a dead-end career and massively out of pocket.
Should Joshua lose, the only other option on the table would be to secure a two or three-fight saga with Deontay Wilder. That long awaited super-fight would be the only saving grace.
Confirming the deal on Monday, DAZN said: “DAZN Group today confirms a ground-breaking deal with Anthony Joshua. The partnership will broadcast Joshua’s future fights on DAZN’s sports entertainment platform to customers worldwide.
DAZN’s tie-up with the UK’s biggest boxing superstar comes amid strong global expansion for the sports entertainment platform. The deal with Joshua marks a pivotal moment for the UK-headquartered business as it drives to expand in its home market.
Discussing his deal, which includes a foot in the DAZN company door, Joshua said: “I am entering a new phase in my career with a new training environment, new coaches, and now a new broadcaster.
“Negotiations at this level take time, so I am pleased to have it all wrapped up, and now I can fully focus on giving the fans and DAZN what they want, knockouts in the glamour division.
DAZN
“I’ve been working with DAZN and following its progress for a long time. We have enjoyed a really successful partnership in the US for many years, and I know the team and understand the passion and drive of the business.
“DAZN’s vision and passion to innovate is what attracted me to the partnership. They are leading the digital landscape in sports and the future of sports broadcasting. I am really looking forward to a long and successful partnership.”
Promoter Eddie Hearn added: “With Anthony joining the team, the stage is set to do even more together, and we are looking forward to getting started.”
The views expressed in this article are the opinions of Phil Jay.
WBN Editor Phil has over ten years of boxing news experience. Follow WBN on Twitter @WorldBoxingNews.
