By Larry Goldberg
A Fight for Survival
In Season 6 of The Sopranos, Patsy Parisi attempts to extort a new coffee chain like the mob used to do with local businesses. The manager remains unfazed, explaining that decisions must come from corporate in Seattle. When Patsy and his crew threaten vandalism, the manager merely shrugs it off, noting that with ten thousand stores, they’d hardly notice a disruption. He seals the deal with, “Every last fuckin’ coffee bean is in the computer.” This leaves Patsy to remark, “It’s over for the little guy.”
A Personal Reflection
This scene resonates with me lately, not because I compare boxing promoters to criminals, but because when corporations take over, they create a structure that sidelines independent players. Is it truly over for the small operators? This isn’t just happening in the ring, but in business, promotion, and in the belief that hard work and relationships matter against institutional wealth.
The Journey of an Independent Promoter
Growing up in Atlantic City, I cherished club boxing events at casinos—vibrant fights where you could hear each punch. I started working at the Tropicana buffet and now host fights in the same venue. Promoters once had their names on their companies—like Don King Promotions or DiBella Entertainment—rooted in personal reputations.
The Current Landscape
Now, I promote under Boxing Insider Promotions, a name reflecting my personal investment. My talented team collaborates on show nights, yet I bear the responsibility for logistics, insurance, and marketing. Since October 2022, we’ve revitalized club boxing in New York, organizing over 20 shows. However, I acknowledge the industry’s shifting landscape, raising concerns about the survival of independent promoters.
Challenges Ahead
The traditional model for small promoters—developing fighters to the point of stardom—feels increasingly unattainable. Even if promoters accept a secondary role, they need fighters willing to take risks, which is becoming rarer. Many fighters now prefer safe bouts, focusing more on social media than the fight itself, and discouraging a culture of bravery that once defined club boxing.
Understanding the Business
Having run BoxingInsider.com since 1998, I thought I understood the business. However, my experiences in promotion unveiled harsh realities: many fighters are unaware of the dynamics shaping their careers. Decisions that affect them are often made without their knowledge. It’s crucial for fighters to have competent legal representation, as poorly chosen advisors can jeopardize their careers.
The Future for Independent Promoters
While the corporate landscape demonstrates clear advantages, it consolidates control, making it harder for independent firms to succeed. Current market conditions have pushed many experienced fighters toward larger promotions, leaving fewer willing to engage in club-level matches. I still believe there’s a future for independent promoters, anchored in genuine local connections. To thrive, we must adapt by thinking like media companies—building audiences outside of fight nights. The billion-dollar entities may dominate, but authentic relationships can’t be replaced, and adapting to these changes is vital.
Larry Goldberg is the founder of Boxing Insider Promotions and owner of BoxingInsider.com.
