BBC Strikes 12-Month National Boxing Broadcast Deal

The BBC has signed a historic 12-month broadcast deal with promoter Boxxer to return live professional boxing to free-to-air primetime television and BBC iPlayer for the first time in over two decades. The agreement, following Sky Sports' decision not to renew its four-year contract with Boxxer, will feature selected fight nights on BBC TV, iPlayer, BBC Sounds, and social channels. The partnership aims to make boxing more accessible, particularly to younger audiences, and will include main events, undercard bouts, and behind-the-scenes features. The first event is expected before the end of the year. Industry observers note that the deal's success will depend on strong matchmaking and genuine competition to revitalize the sport's profile. Both the BBC and Boxxer stress their commitment to showcasing British talent and expanding boxing's reach nationwide.