The magic of mass appeal in Netflix’s Tyson-Paul event owed to shrewd marketing – and willful ignorance

The highly anticipated boxing match between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul last Friday was a huge success in terms of revenue generated. Paul pocketed a reported $40 million US, while Tyson grossed $20 million. Most Valuable Promotions, the company behind the event, confirmed that it drew 72,300 spectators to AT&T Stadium and generated $18.1 million in gate revenue, setting a record for a boxing match outside Las Vegas.

In terms of financial success, the event was a knockout. However, the true cost of the fight goes beyond dollars. The event was streamed on Netflix, requiring viewers to have a subscription to watch. While it was a bargain compared to traditional pay-per-view rates, it still came at a cost. Additionally, the fight resulted in Tyson adding another blemish to his once-flawless record, while Paul’s ranking in the boxing world dropped after defeating the legendary fighter.

Despite the financial success of the event, questions remain about the long-term impact on both fighters. Paul’s victory over Tyson may have dented his appeal, and the formula that made the fight the most viewed boxing match ever could be flawed. However, the large number of viewers who tuned in may not have enough knowledge about boxing to realize the lackluster nature of the fight.

The event’s success can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the star power of Mike Tyson and the platform on which it was streamed. Tyson’s popularity and notoriety played a significant role in drawing viewers to the event, even though his performance in the ring was far from his prime. Paul, on the other hand, has built a following through social media and his unconventional approach to boxing.

Looking ahead, it is likely that Paul will continue to seek out high-profile opponents to build his reputation in the boxing world. While his victory over Tyson may have been controversial, it has undoubtedly raised his profile and opened up new opportunities for future fights. As for Tyson, his legacy as a boxing legend remains intact, despite his recent performances in the ring.

In conclusion, the Tyson vs. Paul boxing match was a financial success, but it came at a cost to both fighters in terms of reputation and ranking. The event’s popularity can be attributed to the star power of Mike Tyson and the platform on which it was streamed. Moving forward, it will be interesting to see how both fighters navigate their careers in the aftermath of this high-profile bout.