Social Science

'So what’s new? HBO's self anointed sages cast aspersions on ring officials and sanctioning bodies as a matter of course. One would think that HBO management would insist that their on-air spokesmen refrain from capriciously damaging the network's valuable property, i.e., world class boxing TV rights. Indeed, Seth Abraham once told me that boxing rights were HBO's most valuable property'.

I would add that by tolerating the cynical style of these commentators, the TV networks are effective participants in the continual slandering of many people in our beloved sport, by the abuse of their 'freedom ' in the use of a microphone and thus, back-stabbing boxing, while benefiting themselves precisely from those that they attack and who promote, fight and supervise their televised bouts.

These actions, during a period that boxing is going through controversy, litigation and ingratitude, have indeed seriously damaged the roots of our beloved sport. However, it is clear that people throughout the world passionately love boxing, as they have since the time that man first inhabited the earth. Thus, in spite of those who work to destroy it, boxing will live for as long as there is hunger in the world and because of the passion, pride, honor , drama, dignity and nobility that it gives to society.

Nonetheless, we respect commentators like George Foreman, who consistently teaches his on-air colleagues with their technical limitations. His commentary is excellent, without the need to offend, denigrate or slander.

Even with all our mistakes as human beings, the leaders of the World Boxing Council are not happy with the bad faith exhibited in the behavior and actions of those apparently intent upon killing the sport. We shall continue fighting positively, with unwavering determination and passion, in our struggle for safety, opportunities for boxers, human equality and for justice. The WBC validated this mission by strongly ruling to provide an opportunity to Gianluca Branco, in the face of strident opposition.

To the good people of boxing in the world, who are the most but least powerful, I invite to continue struggling in benefit of the sport that we love, as well as for the safety, welfare and human dignity. Thank you.

Jose Sulaiman Ch.
President