DAZN takes Canelo-Saunders bout to the ‘next level’ with NFTs

Digital sports streaming service DAZN is set to launch the company’s first-ever set of non-fungible-tokens (NFTs), showcasing iconic moments from the world Super Middleweight unification blockbuster between Canelo Alvarez and Billy Joe Saunders on 8 May.

The drop includes four collections (Knockout: Legendary Edition, Tale of the Tape, Prediction and Fight Highlights) of NFTs which are accompanied by real-life rewards, including never-before-sold memorabilia and exclusive boxing experiences, whilst most collections will offer both an Alvarez and Saunders edition.

Bidders will have the chance to win signed gloves, annual DAZN subscriptions, personalised video messages from the fighters and Eddie Hearn, along with once-in-a-lifetime experiences for fans.

“We’re excited to bring NFTs to boxing, creating new touchpoints with consumers to amplify audience engagement around our events,” remarked Joseph Markowski, DAZN, EVP Global Platform & Revenue Innovation. “This initiative will help DAZN deliver value to our trusted partners and subscribers whilst also allowing the company to explore the new frontier of blockchain technology.” 

The clash, which will be screened by DAZN in over 200 countries and territories, is set to be staged at the 80,000-seater AT&T Stadium in Arlington with over 60,000 boxing fans in attendance, marking the biggest US sporting crowd since the outbreak of the coronavirus.

“This NFT drop is next level for boxing,” noted Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman. “One of the reasons we love working with DAZN is because they’re always looking to create new standards for not only boxing, but all sports. No other broadcaster is in the same position to create these unique assets around individual events.” 

All auctions and sales will take place on the largest NFT marketplace, OpenSea.io. The first three collections will open on 8 May before the ring walk and the remaining collection will be sold post-fight on 10 May.

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