By Mark Lelinwalla

The 40 Days: Canelo-Jacobs docu-series chronicling Canelo Alvarez’s and Daniel Jacobs’ every move during the build-up to their fight last weekend was a big success. LeBron James and Maverick Carter executive-producing it had a lot to do with it being a hit.

Now, the series looks to continue its momentum, transitioning from the biggest athlete in America to one of the most successful recording artists taking the helm. DAZN announced Friday that it will bring back the docu-series for 40 Days: Joshua-Ruiz, which will be executive-produced by Roc Nation and award-winning rapper Meek Mill.

The docu-series will capture each fighter candidly toward the upcoming world heavyweight title fight between unified champion Anthony Joshua and challenger Andy Ruiz Jr. on June 1 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, live on DAZN, in what will mark Joshua’s U.S. debut.

The series will premiere exclusively on Mill’s YouTube channel, beginning May 21 and posting each Tuesday and Thursday leading up to the fight.

Mill, who dropped his fourth studio album Championships last November and has been a face for criminal justice reform, can’t wait.

“DAZN has created a program that explores a fighter’s heart and soul,” Mill said in a press release statement. “They tell the story of what makes a true champion. I love being part of a project that tells of their grit, sacrifices and dedication outside the gym. It’s those things that show true character and should be lauded just as much as the knockouts in the ring.”

Jamie Horowitz, executive vice president of content for DAZN North America, is equally excited, especially of Meek Mill’s involvement.

“It’s a series which is meant to let creative people be creative,” he said. “We are excited to have Meek Mill tell the story of Anthony Joshua’s first fight in America through his unique lens.”

Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn thinks fans will relish going from seeing two middleweights – in Canelo and Jacobs – prepare for a world title fight to watching a couple of heavyweights do the same in the newest installment of 40 Days.

“The concept debuted in brilliant fashion with the Canelo vs. Jacobs episodes offering a fascinating insight into the training camps of two elite middleweights,” Hearn said. “With Joshua and Ruiz Jr., fans will get exclusive access to the preparation of the best heavyweight in the world looking to make a massive impact in America and the dangerous Mexican that can shock the world and become a national hero.”

In his U.S. debut, Joshua (22-0, 21 KOs) will defend his IBF, WBA and WBO world heavyweight titles against Ruiz (32-1, 21 KOs).

Article courtesy of Mark Lelinwalla & Sporting News

Photo by Ed Mulholland/ Matchroom Boxing