The most watched boxing match of 2022 was undoubtedly the highly anticipated rematch between KSI and Logan Paul, known as KSI vs. Logan Paul II. This extraordinary event took place on December 9, 2022, at the renowned Staples Center in Los Angeles, California. It captivated a massive audience and garnered significant attention worldwide.
Broadcasted on the popular sports streaming platform DAZN, the KSI vs. Logan Paul II fight drew an impressive estimated 1.2 million pay-per-view buys. It surpassed the viewership of their first encounter in 2018, which attracted around 1.1 million pay-per-view buys. This rematch achieved even greater popularity, primarily because it marked the groundbreaking moment when two prominent YouTubers headlined a pay-per-view boxing event, captivating the interest of fans from both the boxing and online content creation worlds. It also due criticism due to its ‘novelty value’ and potential to negatively impact the sport due to that, rather than pure ability.
The KSI vs. Logan Paul II fight was intense and closely contested, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats. Ultimately, KSI emerged victorious, securing a split decision win. This rematch not only solidified KSI’s standing as a formidable boxer (within the field of ‘entertainers’ at least) but also showcased Logan Paul’s resilience and dedication to the sport. The event’s overwhelming success propelled both fighters to new heights of recognition and respect within the boxing community and beyond, emphasising the viability of boxing as a legitimate career path for YouTubers.
In addition to the remarkable viewership of KSI vs. Logan Paul II, several other notable boxing matches captivated audiences throughout 2022. These include the highly anticipated clash between Canelo Alvarez and Dmitry Bivol, which generated an impressive 800,000 pay-per-view buys. The rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Anthony Joshua, two heavyweight powerhouses, attracted 700,000 pay-per-view buys, further solidifying their status as boxing superstars.
Furthermore, the matchup between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano captivated boxing enthusiasts, drawing 500,000 pay-per-view buys. Lastly, the thrilling encounter between Terence Crawford and Shawn Porter captivated audiences with its high stakes, resulting in 400,000 pay-per-view buys.
These unforgettable boxing matches of 2022 showcased the immense popularity and global appeal of the sport, captivating audiences with their electrifying performances and unforgettable moments.