DAZN is dealing with the aftermath of this weekend’s big fight between Canelo Alvarez and Daniel Jacobs on the digital platform where USA Today reports there were many complaints.
Perhaps foreshadowing the Saturday night issues was the choppy stream of the weigh-ins on Friday afternoon. The digital platform and the company’s YouTube channel which streamed the weigh-ins.
The USA Today article included screenshots showing potential customers receiving “Payments Error” screens as well as general complaints about the streaming. There was a snafu during the Jacobs’ walk out to the ring which also can be attributed to the stream.
Looks like @DAZN_USA out here trying to Gank folks on fight night….I just paid foe the app…they’ve taken the loot out of my account….and this is what I’m seeing? Y’all better stop half stepping and get your head in the game….like now! Or else you can gimme my cash back! pic.twitter.com/ni6mvASkkN
— Cole Wright (@ColeWrightNFL) May 5, 2019
There was also a critique about the perception that the pro-Canelo commentators had dismissed the fact that Jacobs could win the fight. The most notable coming from UFC Heavyweight Champion Daniel Cormier.
Brian Kenny and Sergio Mora really suck! Canelo won but Danny fought a good fight man wtf they ruined the fight.
— Daniel Cormier (@dc_mma) May 5, 2019
Payout Perspective:
One might have anticipated some issues with DAZN’s first big event on its digital platform. There were comparisons to the HBO Boxing crew of Jim Lampley, Roy Jones, Jr. and Max Kellerman. There is always criticism when there’s change. Brian Kenny and Sergio Mora may have favored Canelo but it goes without saying that he’s the company’s biggest star. Similar fawning has happened with Manny Pacquiao in his prime. But the bigger concern is ensuring that DAZN’s digital platform is solid including last minute sign-ups, maintaining a steady stream and production upgrades. Next month when Anthony Joshua and GGG fight on back to back weeks, we will see if DAZN learns from these issues.
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