By Jimmy Ayash

Top Rank Boxing Will proceed with their two Boxing shows scheduled this week ( Saturday & Tuesday evening) at Madison Square Garden, New York City.

In what is a first in recent memory, the boxing show will go on as scheduled with no boxing fans yelling, cheering and clapping.

The thirst for broadcasting boxing on networks and various platforms has become so crucial it sometimes outweighs the spectator attendance and gate sales.

The world epidemic coronavirus has sent the sporting world into a frenzy, with most major & professional sports leagues suspending play yesterday or today for the foreseeable future.

As schools close and college kids come home, patients will be the key to getting through this tough time.

Even if it’s overkill, the health of people should always come first. This event maybe a blessing in the long term as it might set the wheels turning for how we could deal with future catastrophes/ viruses that might occur.

The following statement was just released by Top Rank this afternoon:

“NEW YORK (March 12, 2020) — Due to the coronavirus pandemic, and to ensure the health and safety of boxing fans and the fight participants, Top Rank announced today that the March 14 and March 17 events at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden will proceed without spectators. The only individuals granted access to the events will be essential production and support staff, in addition to fighters and necessary team members, and credentialed media. Both events will still be shown live on their respective ESPN platforms.

As for future events, Top Rank is consulting with its venue partners and will make a determination in due course.

Full refunds for tickets purchased for the March 14 and March 17 events will be available at the point of purchase.“

Photo courtesy of Mikey Williams/ Top Rank