Showtime Sports network will cease all operations by the end of 2023. The announcement was made by the company's president, Stephen Espinoza. Showtime will no longer broadcast boxing and other sporting events.
"The company's decision is not a reflection of the work we have done in the past or our long history, which we are proud of... Unfortunately, in the rapidly evolving media market, companies have to make a tough choices, reallocating resources, shifting priorities, and changing their content offerings. While today's news is undoubtedly difficult and disheartening, they are entirely beyond our control," Espinoza stated in a comment to SBJ.
Currently, Showtime has an exclusive contract with promotion company PBC, headed by Al Haymon. This year, Showtime broadcast high-profile fights such as Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia, the historic showdown between Saul Alvarez and Jermell Charlo, the megafight between Crawford vs. Spence, and many more.
PBC has a contract with Canelo Alvarez for three fights, of which only one has been fulfilled - against Charlo. The promotion company is exploring the possibility of reaching an agreement with Amazon Prime Video and DAZN.