Showtime Sports, the renowned platform for world-class boxing and MMA, is set to shut down after nearly four decades. Paramount’s decision to focus on premium scripted series marks the end of an era for combat sports fans. Read more about the closure and the impact it will have on the industry.
| Showtime Sports, the renowned platform for world-class boxing and MMA, is shutting down after nearly four decades.
| Paramount President and CEO Chris McCarthy confirmed the news, citing a shift in content priorities.
| The closure marks the end of an era that produced iconic fights and record-breaking pay-per-view events.
| UFC CEO Dana White took a jab at Showtime Sports President Stephen Espinoza in response to the news.
| Fans will cherish the memories created by Showtime Sports and look forward to the future of combat sports on other platforms.
End of an Era: Showtime Sports to Shut Down
In a surprising turn of events, Showtime Sports, the renowned platform for world-class boxing and MMA, is set to shut down after nearly four decades. Paramount President and CEO Chris McCarthy recently confirmed the news in an email to employees, stating that the company would no longer produce sports content starting from the end of 2023.
This decision marks a significant shift in focus for Paramount, as they plan to allocate more resources towards premium scripted series that drive subscribers in both Pay TV and SVOD. McCarthy emphasized that the decision was not a reflection of the team’s work or their partners’ efforts, but rather a response to the evolving world and changing content priorities.
With the closure of Showtime Sports, fans will bid farewell to world-class boxing and Bellator MMA on the platform. Showtime, known for its exceptional production values, has been a staple in combat sports since its inception in 1986. Over the years, it has hosted numerous iconic events and showcased legendary matchups, including the record-breaking pay-per-view fights between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao, as well as Mayweather’s showdown with UFC star Conor McGregor.
While the news of Showtime Sports’ demise may come as a disappointment to some, UFC CEO Dana White couldn’t resist taking a jab at Showtime Sports President Stephen Espinoza. White sarcastically commented on the production values of the show and expressed his satisfaction with the platform’s departure.
As Showtime Sports prepares to bid farewell, fight fans will cherish the memories created over the years and eagerly anticipate the future of combat sports on other platforms.
