Is British boxing actually in crisis?

Former lightweight world champion Anthony Crolla has raised concerns about the state of British boxing, warning that the sport is in a “major crisis” due to a sharp decline in domestic shows.

The 38-year-old Mancunian, who retired in 2019 after a 13-year career, says the UK scene is struggling as lucrative overseas events dominate the calendar.

“The small hall shows have been absolutely murdered,” Crolla told One on One Boxing. “The amount of UK shows we’re seeing - they’ve been cut in half. It’s probably less.”

With Sky Sports and TNT Sports no longer hosting professional boxing, major promoters have shifted to DAZN, leaving fewer dates available for domestic fights. Crolla believes this has forced some fighters to look abroad for opportunities, while others are left to grind on smaller shows.

Saudi Arabia’s rise as a boxing powerhouse has also contributed to the issue. Major undercards there have included bouts like Peter McGrail vs Rhys Edwards, Joe Cordina vs Anthony Cacace, and Fabio Wardley vs Frazer Clarke II – all of which, Crolla argues, could have headlined in the UK.

“You’re seeing five brilliant fights coming from Saudi, but what you’re also seeing there are five headliners, which could potentially be five big UK shows,” he said.

Despite the challenges, Crolla praised grassroots promoters such as Black Flash, Steve Wood, and Kevin Maree, who continue to stage smaller events on tight budgets.

“They’re putting shows on as much as they can to get the lads out but it’s hard. A lot of the time the promoter doesn’t make anything. They’re relying on sponsors, but they’re doing it to get the lads out.”

Do you agree with Anthony Crolla's points? Or the situation isn't really that stressful for british boxing now?