CASE STUDY HBO AND THE RISE OF PAY-PER-VIEW SPORTS HBO (Home Box Office), originally launched in 1972, revolutionised the television industry not only with its premium entertainment content but also through its influential role in sports broadcasting, especially in the world of boxing. In 1991, HBO officially entered the pay-perview (PPV) market with HBO Pay-Per-View, creating a new business model that allowed fans to purchase exclusive access to major live events from home. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, HBO became synonymous with elite-level boxing. The network aired some of the most iconic and high-grossing fights in history, including fights featuring legends such as Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, and Oscar De La Hoya. One of the most watched events was Mayweather vs. De La Hoya in 2007, which generated over 2.4 million viewers and $136 million: a record at the time. HBO s boxing broadcasts weren t just about the fights. The productions included expert commentary, in-depth fighter profiles, behindthe-scenes footage, and cinematic storytelling. Their series 24/7 , which followed fighters in training camps leading up to big fights, was especially praised for building enthusiasm and humanising athletes. However, as streaming platforms like DAZN and ESPN+ emerged and the boxing landscape shifted, HBO made the strategic decision to exit the sport. In 2018, after 45 years of covering boxing and over 1,000 fights, HBO aired its final live boxing match. Although it no longer broadcasts sports, HBO left an important mark on the world of pay-perview. Its commitment to quality and innovation reshaped how combat sports were presented to the public, consumed, and remembered, setting a standard that continues to influence the industry today. Adapted from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HBO_World_ Championship_Boxing high-grossing: ad alto incasso to praise: elogiare 5 Write questions to the following answers. 1. HBO was launched in 1972 and influenced both the television industry and sports broadcasting, particularly in boxing. 4. HBO aired Mayweather vs. De La Hoya in 2007, which drew over 2.4 million viewers and earned $136 million, setting a record at the time. 2. In 1991, HBO entered the pay-per-view (PPV) market with HBO Pay-Per-View, allowing fans to buy access to major live events from home. 5. HBO s coverage included expert commentary, fighter profiles, behind-the-scenes content, and the acclaimed 24/7 series, known for its storytelling and humanising of athletes. 3. HBO showcased boxing legends like Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, and Oscar De La Hoya. 6. Due to competition from streaming services like DAZN and ESPN+, HBO exited boxing in 2018 after 45 years and over 1,000 fights. 220 Law, economy, and FSL