Best Sports on TV and Stream this Weekend (December 22-25, 2023)
As we reach the end of the year, 2023 goes out with a bang, with some of the most spectacular matchups and sporting events of the year right at the tail end. From a jam-packed boxing card in Saudi Arabia to the annual tradition that is the Christmas Day games in the NBA, there’s a lot to keep you entertained this Christmas weekend.
Let’s have a look at what’s coming up.
Boxing: ‘Day of Reckoning’ DAZN Card (December 23rd)
The upcoming 'Day of Reckoning' boxing event, set to take place on December 23 in Saudi Arabia, is shaping up to be a monumental occasion in the world of boxing. This event is not just about the fights; it's a showcase of how Saudi Arabia is transforming the sport's promotion and presentation.
The event features a star-studded lineup, including heavyweights like Anthony Joshua, Deontay Wilder, Otto Wallin, Daniel Dubois, Jarrell Miller, and more. The card is so packed with talent that main-event caliber bouts like Joshua vs. Wallin and Wilder vs. Parker are part of the lineup, with one serving as the chief support. The undercard is equally impressive, featuring light-heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol and Jai Opetaia.
What sets this event apart is not just the roster of fighters but the unique and creative promotion. The event's trailer, a cinematic piece directed by Romain Chassaing, presents the boxers in a post-apocalyptic, zombie-themed setting. This bizarre yet brilliant promotional approach, complete with high-quality prosthetics and makeup, adds a layer of creativity and humor to the event's buildup.
The promotion of 'Day of Reckoning' reflects a new era in boxing, where the spectacle and presentation are as important as the fights themselves. It's a testament to the changing landscape of the sport, where traditional rivalries and promotional tactics are being reimagined to create a more engaging and entertaining experience for fans worldwide.
Premier League: Arsenal at Liverpool (December 23rd)
This Saturday, the top two meet in the Premier League as the battle for daylight at the top takes place. Arsenal, currently leading the Premier League, showcased their dominance with a convincing 2-0 victory over Brighton. Their performance was a testament to Mikel Arteta's vision, particularly highlighting Kai Havertz's evolving role in the team.
Despite some debate over his impact alongside Martin Odegaard in midfield, Havertz's versatility and technical prowess were crucial in Arsenal's triumph. This win not only solidified their top position but also demonstrated their capability to adapt and excel against challenging opponents.
Liverpool, on the other hand, experienced a frustrating 0-0 draw against Manchester United, despite creating a staggering 34 chances. Jurgen Klopp's side dominated the game but their inability to convert chances into goals was evident.
This draw left them trailing Arsenal by a point, intensifying the pressure ahead of their upcoming match. Liverpool's recent performances have been a mix of resilience and missed opportunities, and they will be eager to unleash their full potential against Arsenal.
This match is more than just a battle for the top spot; it's a clash of strategies and soccer philosophies. Arsenal's recent form and tactical adaptability make them formidable opponents, while Liverpool's relentless attacking prowess and experience in high-stakes matches add an unpredictable edge to the encounter.
Fans can expect a fantastic match filled with tactical nuances, individual brilliance, and possibly, decisive moments that could influence the title race.
NBA: Christmas Day Games (December 25th)
The NBA's 2023 Christmas Day games are a sporting tradition in the US, and this year they have a spectacular lineup, blending star-studded matchups, intense rivalries, and playoff rematches.
The day tips off with the Milwaukee Bucks taking on the New York Knicks, a contest that sees the Knicks striving to halt the Bucks' six-game winning streak against them. This game is more than just a clash of teams; it's a battle of enduring legacies, with the Knicks looking to add another win to their record number of Christmas Day appearances.
As the day progresses, the excitement escalates with the Golden State Warriors facing off against the Denver Nuggets. This matchup is a thrilling encounter between the past two NBA champions, highlighting the Warriors' dynasty and the Nuggets' recent ascent to glory. The intrigue of this game is heightened by the presence of Stephen Curry and Nikola Jokic, both two-time Kia MVPs, who bring their exceptional talents to this high-stakes game.
The centerpiece of the day's action is the historic rivalry between the Boston Celtics and the Los Angeles Lakers. This game is not just a regular season matchup; it's a chapter in the most storied rivalry in NBA history. With both teams eyeing a record 18th NBA championship, superstars like LeBron James and Jayson Tatum will be at the forefront, making this game a must-watch for basketball aficionados.
As evening falls, the Philadelphia 76ers, led by Joel Embiid, take on the Miami Heat, the defending Eastern Conference champions. This game is a showcase of tactical prowess and individual brilliance, with both teams eager to assert their dominance in the conference.
The day concludes with a Western Conference showdown between the Dallas Mavericks and the Phoenix Suns. This game is a continuation of a burgeoning rivalry, highlighted by a previous classic overtime encounter. With Kevin Durant now in the mix, this game promises high-octane action and could be a preview of a potential playoff battle.
Author: Dan Anderson