Is Matchroom Boxing Losing Its Credibility in the Sport?

Matchroom Boxing has spent years building its reputation as one of the most dominant promoters worldwide, delivering major stadium shows and guiding elite fighters to world championships.

But recent decisions have sparked a growing debate about whether the organisation is beginning to prioritise entertainment value over competitive logic and fighter safety. That debate intensified first with the Conor Benn vs Chris Eubank Jr rematch, and now with the announcement of Anthony Joshua vs Jake Paul.

The Benn vs Eubank Jr Rematch Raised Serious Concerns

The rematch between Conor Benn and Chris Eubank Jr drew huge attention, but it also left many fans questioning why the fight was made in the first place. Eubank Jr looked ill on the night, clearly drained and far from the sharp, resilient fighter fans were used to seeing. Benn dominated him over the course of the bout, scoring two knockdowns in the final round before sealing a convincing victory.

For many observers, the issue wasn’t just the result but the condition Eubank Jr appeared to be in. When a fighter steps into the ring visibly compromised, questions naturally arise about whether the promotion is putting commercial appeal ahead of fighter welfare. A rivalry may sell tickets, but it still has to align with basic safety standards, and many felt this matchup did not.

Joshua vs Jake Paul Sparks a New Wave of Debate

The next flashpoint came with the announcement of Anthony Joshua vs Jake Paul. Joshua is a former unified heavyweight world champion, a proven elite athlete with years at the top of the division. Jake Paul, while popular and improving, is still a crossover boxer with limited experience compared to world-level heavyweights.

Fans and analysts have pointed out that pairing a seasoned champion with an internet star pushes the boundaries of what should be considered legitimate matchmaking. While crossover fights bring huge attention and new audiences, they also risk watering down the credibility that separates true professional boxing from pure spectacle.

Some see it as entertainment. Others see it as a step too far.

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Is Matchroom Moving Away from Its Boxing Foundations?

The concern is not about excitement—boxing has always needed stars and big events. The concern is whether decisions are drifting away from sporting logic and sliding toward viral potential. Matchroom built its legacy on competitive matchups, title fights and developing elite talent. But recent events have made fans question whether those priorities are shifting.

If these trends continue, the debate about Matchroom’s credibility will only grow louder. Boxing is entertainment, but it is also a dangerous sport built on discipline, rankings and fairness. When those foundations begin to look secondary, people take notice.

The choices Matchroom makes from here will determine whether it stays at the heart of professional boxing or becomes known more for spectacle than sport.