Classic boxing matches to watch if you miss boxing

There are no new boxing bouts at the moment, but ESPN and Showtime are stepping up to the plate to air classic fights for those missing the sport.

If you’re a boxing fan, then life without the sport likely has you missing the times of Saturday night main events. While there are no new contests at the moment, ESPN and Showtime are trying to give fans the enjoyment of classic bouts from the past to fill the void.

On Friday, April 24, at 10 p.m. ET, Showtime is replaying the 2014 fight of the year between Lucas Matthysse and John Molina Jr. Molina is used to coming into battles as the underdog, but he gave Matthysse all he could handle.

Matthysse vs. Molina looked great on paper, being that they’re both KO artists known for throwing caution to the wind. The reality was even better when they battled inside the ring. There were multiple knockdowns, cuts, and drama. The back and forth action made this boxing match and an instant classic. After Matthysse vs. Molina, stick around and watch Molina’s thrilling 2013 bout against Mickey Bey.

The following day on Saturday, April 25, ESPN and promotional company Top Rank are celebrating the careers of Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao by showing a collection of their bouts.

Starting at 7 p.m. ET, ESPN will televise the 2006 matchup between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Zab Judah, followed by Manny Pacquiao vs. Juan Manuel Marquez 2 at 8 p.m. ET.

Next at 9 p.m. ET is Pacquiao vs. Miguel Cotto from 2009, immediately followed by the 2015 mega bout between Mayweather and Pacquiao at 10 p.m. ET. Buckle up for four historical boxing contests in four hours. Relive several parts of pugilistic history this weekend and reminisce during the absence of the sweet science. You can also jump on ESPN+ to see hundreds of other classic fights.

ESPN will also be presenting a special interview between commentator Joe Tessitore and Top Rank boss Bob Arum at approximately 9 p.m. ET.

According to a press release, Tessitore and Arum will be discussing “the hurdles that boxing must overcome to return, how the travel restrictions will impact the sport and Fury-Wilder 3.”

It will be interesting to see if Arum releases any new information regarding alternate plans for Fury vs. Wilder 3.

Boxing is out of commission at the moment but build in some time this weekend to relive great moments from the past on Showtime and ESPN.