By Ronnie Nathanielsz
The respected editor-in-chief of Ring Magazine, the acknowledged "Bible of Boxing" has welcomed the acquisition of the premier boxing magazine by a publication company owned by Oscar De La Hoya.
Nigel Collins told Viva Sports/Manila Standard today that this was "a wonderful opportunity to maximize The Ring’s potential and aggressively market the brand."
Collins said he was "extremely excited about the future of this great publication" which was acquired along with KO, another boxing magazine, World Boxing and Pro Wrestling Illustrated.
The Ring which was founded in 1922 is noted for pioneering the concept of boxing rankings which are often held in high regard by fight fans who are often dismayed by the rankings of the various world governing bodies and the fact that there are no single, universally-recognized champions in the various weight divisions.
There has been some criticism and concern over the acquisition of The Ring by De La Hoya who is a promoter and a fighter with indications that it is a conflict of interest. One critic said the credibility and independence of The Ring had gone down the drain and that Collins and the staff were now technically employees of Golden Boy.
However, Golden Boy Promotions CEO Richard Schaefer has said there are enough safeguards in place to guarantee the editorial independence of The Ring.
Schaefer said "this is the kind of asset you never really own, but rather safeguard for the next generation" adding "we are proud and honored to be part of this next generation and are mindful of the responsibility thrust upon us."
