Legendary boxing commentator Al Bernstein has voiced intense criticism of the current state of live sportscasting, branding it an ‘epidemic’ that is undermining the role of commentators at ringside.
Bernstein, one of the most respected analysts in the sport who also made a cameo in Rocky V, says that too many announcers are now more concerned with telling stories or analyzing side issues than chronicling the action unfolding before them.
Bernstein’s “Epidemic”
“This is becoming an epidemic in sportscasting. In the last three days, I’ve watched a bunch of events in several sports, and announcers are so busy storytelling or over-analyzing that they talk right over an important thing happening, so they can complete the thing they are saying,” Bernstein stated.
“Sportscasting a live event is becoming a discussion, not a chronicling of the contest. It started a long time ago, but now it is the norm. It drives me crazy.”
The Showtime Boxing Hall of Famer’s comments immediately sparked debate across social media, with fans agreeing that modern commentary often drowns out the live action instead of enhancing it.
Former HBO Sports executive Mark Taffet backed Bernstein’s assessment, saying the tendency for announcers to drift off-topic weakens the viewing experience.
“I have noticed exactly the same thing,” said Taffet. “Too much talk about ancillary things not relevant to the night and frankly undermining the chemistry of what is going on in the arena and in the ring.”
A Return to the Fundamentals of Ringside Commentary
The criticism echoes a growing frustration among boxing fans who argue that the best commentary strikes a balance between context and description.
Historic calls from Jim Lampley, Howard Cosell, and Bernstein himself are remembered precisely because they captured pivotal in-ring moments without distraction.
As boxing continues its revival across premium networks and streaming platforms, the pressure is mounting on today’s broadcasters to get the basics right.
With major fights like Canelo Alvarez vs Terence Crawford, and a massive night on November 22 compelling viewers worldwide, fans are making it clear: they want the action described, not overshadowed.
About the Author
Phil Jay is a veteran boxing journalist with over 15 years of experience covering the global fight scene. As Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News since 2010, Jay has interviewed dozens of world champions and reported ringside on boxing’s biggest nights. [View all articles by Phil Jay] and learn more about his work in combat sports journalism.