DAZN lands rights to Joshua v Parker

DAZN, the OTT service operated by digital sports media company Perform, has acquired rights in a host of markets to boxing’s upcoming world heavyweight unification clash between Anthony Joshua and Joseph Parker.

DAZN has secured exclusive rights to the bout, which takes place at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales on March 31, in Germany, Austria and Canada. DAZN will also show the fight on a non-exclusive basis in Switzerland.

In partnership with Matchroom Boxing and Duco Events, DAZN will exclusively showcase all the action in the run up to the fight, including the weigh in and press conferences between the two fighters. DAZN will also broadcast behind the scenes footage and an archive of previous fights.

John Gleasure, chief commercial officer of DAZN, said: “Unlike other broadcasters, DAZN doesn’t charge a premium for box office events. This fight is another example of our commitment to make sport more affordable and accessible than ever before.”

The fight will be only the second time in boxing history where two undefeated heavyweight champions compete in a unification bout. British fighter Joshua, the IBF and WBA world champion, will face New Zealand star Parker, the WBO belt holder. 

In other news, DAZN has widened its reach in Canada by agreeing a carriage deal with streaming services provider Roku.

DAZN is now available on Roku players and televisions in the country.