Attention boxing enthusiasts! A bold plan is unfolding to shatter boxing's longest-standing attendance record, and it's got everyone talking. The target? None other than the legendary Tyson Fury.
Imagine this: iVisit Boxing, a promotional powerhouse, aims to transform San Francisco's Civic Center Plaza into an open-air boxing arena on July 11th. Their ambitious goal? To attract a staggering 150,000 spectators, breaking the current world record of 135,132 set way back in 1941 at Juneau Park, Milwaukee.
Ed Pereira, the mastermind behind iVisit Boxing, has his sights set on Tyson Fury, believing he's the perfect draw for such a historic event. "For me, Tyson Fury is the big name right now. He's back, and I think he's the man for the big events," Pereira told The Sun. But here's where it gets controversial...
To achieve their record-breaking feat, iVisit Boxing is offering some tickets for free and will stream the entire card on YouTube. Pereira, with his extensive experience in marketing and logistics across Premier League and rugby union, is confident that the key to success lies in appealing to the masses. "When you're asking 150,000 to 180,000 people to attend, telling them it's a world record event is crucial. They'll be part of history," he added.
And this is the part most people miss: iVisit Boxing is not just targeting traditional boxing fans. They're aiming to attract a broader audience, including those who might enjoy a pint at the pub. Ryan Garcia, another crucial name for the card, is known for his ability to draw in casual viewers beyond the boxing realm. "It's about engaging the guy in the pub, making them care about the sport," Pereira explained.
The San Francisco event promises an immersive experience, unlike the Times Square card, which faced criticism for its lack of a live audience. Pereira assures, "Our events will have no fences, bringing the crowd closer to the action."
With more than 12 events planned across different cities in 2026, iVisit Boxing's "Iconic" series is set to revolutionize the sport. But will they succeed in breaking the record? And what impact will this have on the future of boxing? These are questions we can only answer together. So, what do you think? Is this a brilliant move or a risky venture? Let's discuss in the comments!