In the rapidly evolving world of sports streaming, fans are constantly seeking the best value, experience, and access to their favorite fights. If you’re a boxing enthusiast, two major platforms dominate the conversation: DAZN and ESPN+. This detailed comparison unpacks everything you need to know about these streaming giants, helping you make the right choice for your boxing viewership needs.
Overview of DAZN and ESPN+
Before diving deep into features and performance, here’s a quick overview:
DAZN
- Founded in 2015
- Dedicated sports streaming platform with a heavy focus on boxing and MMA
- Global availability with country-specific offerings
- Website: www.dazn.com
- Social media: @DAZN on Twitter (1.2M+ followers), @daznboxing on Instagram (900k+ followers)
ESPN+
- Launched in 2018 as a division of Disney
- Offers broad sports coverage including boxing, UFC, and college sports
- Available primarily in the U.S.
- Website: www.espnplus.com
- Social media: @espnplus on Twitter (650k+ followers), @espn on Instagram (22M+ followers)
Pricing: ESPN+ Is More Budget-Friendly
ESPN+
- Monthly: $10.99
- Annual: $109.99
- PPV fights: $79.99 (UFC and boxing)
DAZN
- Monthly: $24.99
- Annual: $224.99
- PPV fights: $59.99 to $89.99
Conclusion: ESPN+ is more affordable overall, especially for casual boxing fans or multi-sport viewers.
Content & Fight Coverage
DAZN
- Specializes in boxing and combat sports
- Collaborates with Matchroom Boxing, Golden Boy Promotions
- Features fighters like Canelo Alvarez, Ryan Garcia, and Gennadiy Golovkin
- Also streams women’s boxing, regional bouts, and up-and-comers
ESPN+
- Exclusive home of Top Rank Boxing
- Features fighters like Shakur Stevenson, Vasiliy Lomachenko, and Teofimo Lopez
- Also covers UFC events and preliminary cards
- Offers classic fight archives and interviews
Conclusion: DAZN is ideal for boxing purists. ESPN+ is better for fans who enjoy UFC and a range of other sports.
Streaming Quality & User Experience
DAZN
- Streams in 1080p HD, some in 4K
- Clean, boxing-first interface
- Ad-free live event experience
- Easy navigation of fight replays and upcoming cards
ESPN+
- Streams between 720p and 1080p
- Part of the broader ESPN app
- Ads may appear during live streams
- Tailored for fans who follow multiple sports leagues
Conclusion: DAZN offers superior visual quality and a focused viewing environment.
Performance & Reliability
Fans report that both platforms are stable, but DAZN generally performs better during high-demand live events. It features:
- On-demand replays
- Multi-language commentary
- Regional fight scheduling
- Real-time features like FightZone (punch stats, heat maps, etc.)
ESPN+ occasionally experiences buffering during marquee events, especially UFC PPVs.
Accessibility & Device Compatibility
Both platforms support:
- Smart TVs
- Android/iOS
- Desktop browsers
- Gaming consoles
DAZN supports smoother device switching. ESPN+ integrates well with Disney+, Hulu, and the ESPN app ecosystem.
Special Features and Add-Ons
DAZN
- FightZone: In-broadcast stats and graphics
- Multi-view for simultaneous matches
- Watch Parties: Virtual viewing with friends
- DAZN Bet: Betting feature in select countries
- Original content: Docuseries, fighter profiles, training camps
ESPN+
- Bundling: Disney+ and Hulu for $14.99/month
- Access to ESPN Insider, fantasy tools
- UFC integration: PPVs, Fight Nights, and archives
- ESPN Films: Documentaries and sports shows
Conclusion: DAZN leads in fight-focused features. ESPN+ adds more value through bundled content.
Reputation & User Ratings
DAZN
- Google Reviews: 4.0/5 from over 10,000 users
- Trustpilot: 3.7/5
- App Store: 4.6/5 from 52,000+ ratings
ESPN+
- Google Reviews: 4.2/5 from over 25,000 users
- Trustpilot: 3.4/5
- Play Store: 4.4/5 from 110,000+ ratings
Conclusion: Both platforms are well-regarded but have room for improvement, especially regarding price and performance during peak times.
Pros and Cons Overview
| Feature | DAZN | ESPN+ |
| Affordable Pricing | No | Yes |
| Extensive Boxing | Yes | Yes |
| Other Sports | No | Yes |
| Streaming Quality | Yes | No |
| Multi-device Support | Yes | Yes |
| PPV Costs | No | No |
| Original Content | Yes | Yes |
| Extras & Add-ons | Yes | Yes |
Ideal User Profiles
Choose DAZN if you
- Prioritize international boxing
- Prefer uninterrupted, HD streaming
- Want in-depth, fight-specific features
- Enjoy original content like documentaries and fight analysis
Choose ESPN+ if you
- Follow UFC and other sports
- Want access to fantasy sports tools and articles
- Need a budget-friendly subscription
- Benefit from Disney+/Hulu bundling
Global Availability and Reach
DAZN is available in 200+ countries, offering localized fight content and commentary in regions such as:
- UK
- Japan
- Germany
- Mexico
- Spain
ESPN+ is mainly available in the U.S. but offers international access via affiliated ESPN channels and platforms.
Additional Value
DAZN focuses on creating a home for boxing enthusiasts with:
- Daily fight highlights
- Training footage
- Exclusive interviews
- Press conference streams
ESPN+ caters to broader interests with:
- Live scores
- Game simulcasts
- Editorial content and expert analysis
Industry Trends in 2025
Boxing streaming in 2025 is heavily influenced by:
- Increased mobile viewing
- Demand for real-time analytics during fights
- Integration with fantasy sports and betting apps
- Cross-platform content syndication
Both DAZN and ESPN+ have adapted by updating their apps, investing in original programming, and optimizing for lower bandwidth areas.
Device Support Comparison Table
| Device Type | DAZN | ESPN+ |
| Smart TVs | Yes | Yes |
| Android/iOS | Yes | Yes |
| Web Browsers | Yes | Yes |
| Gaming Consoles | Yes | Yes |
| Roku/Fire Stick | Yes | Yes |
| Chromecast/AirPlay | Yes | Yes |
FAQs
What is the main difference between DAZN and ESPN+?
DAZN is tailored for boxing fans, while ESPN+ covers a wider array of sports.
Are there replays and on-demand access?
Yes. DAZN has more comprehensive replays and boxing archives.
Can I cancel the subscription anytime?
Yes. Both platforms allow easy cancellation.
Which platform is better for international viewers?
DAZN offers broader international access and regional content..
Which service has better commentary and analysis?
DAZN offers specialized boxing analysts. ESPN+ benefits from a broader ESPN talent pool.
Conclusion
When comparing DAZN vs ESPN+ boxing stream services, your ideal choice depends on your interests:
- Choose DAZN if you’re a hardcore boxing enthusiast who values global coverage, exclusive fights, and a premium viewing experience.
- Choose ESPN+ if you want a cost-effective way to enjoy boxing alongside other sports like UFC, NCAA games, and fantasy sports tools.
Boxing Essential continues to evolve and provide fans with immersive access to the boxing world. Whichever you choose, you’re in for electrifying matchups and deep sports content.
