Boxing fans have certainly been treated to some incredible spectacles over recent years and some fans have been lucky enough to have been able to get themselves a ticket and attend one of these classic matches. However, getting tickets for a big boxing event can prove very difficult and nevertheless, expensive too! Another drawback for boxing fans is the sometimes small venues with limited crowd space. For example, the upcoming, much anticipated rematch between Andy Ruiz and Anthony Joshua will take place in an open-air venue that only holds 12,000 spectators. With getting a ticket being no easy task, the help of virtual reality has made it much easier for fans of this sport to get ring-side!
Boxing is a popular sport for many reasons, the sheer adrenaline that runs through fighters when in the ring and unexpected results in the history of the sport have engaged fans from all over the world.
It’s no surprise that virtual reality has been popular in the boxing space, and provides fans with a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with the ring.
What is virtual reality?
Put simply, Virtual reality is a unique, 3D experience that doesn’t really exist. Powered by advanced technology and xompuritrsed systems, VR offers people an immersive culture that makes them think they are in a believable situation, when they really aren’t.
What do I need to get started with virtual reality boxing?
If you like the sound of virtual reality and you want to get involved in the action, we’ve put together a guide that will help get you up and running with this new and advanced technology.
The first thing you will need to do is get yourself a virtual reality headset. Now, there are quite a few different headsets available but it’s important to be aware of device compatibility. The NextVR’s app is constantly adding new partners, but you need to make sure that your headset is compatible with the app – before you buy it.
To name a few, some established brands that are definitely compatible are:
- Oculus Go
- Gear VR
- Playstation VR
- HTC Vive
Whilst this technology is relatively new to the scene, boxing events have already become quite sophisticated for viewers – meaning a closer look at the action and a more ringside like atmosphere.
Can you imagine having a 360 degree view for that beckoning rendition of ‘Sweet Caroline’ before the walk out?
The majority of the Virtual Reality streaming of live boxing events is pioneered by NextVR. These live, 3D streams also include live commentary, multiple viewing options and advanced graphics directly into your virtual reality screening.
And as we mentioned, this tech is still in its infancy!
Things are only going to get more complex and real, meaning there really is no need to pay those jay dropping prices to sit ringside anymore.
Once your headset is correctly set up and ready for use, you need to head to the app store and download the NextVR app.
The app will give you access to all of the selected live boxing events, available for virtual reality viewing.
Select your stream, connect your headset with a few clicks and it’s that simple!
How will you choose to watch virtual reality boxing?
Every sport fan will have their own personal preference when it comes to the ultimate virtual reality setting.
Some big boxing fans will prefer to sit in a more relaxed environment and have full concentration on the fight. They will want to utilise this unique technology to get a better insight of the experience and the match, right in front of their eyes!
Although, you can actually watch the selected live boxing games with your friends together online – wherever they are in the world!
Boasting strong partnerships with both Samsung Gear VR and Google VR, NextVR has the ability to offer users an even better virtual reality experience.
Wherever you are in the world, you and your friends can get the snacks ready, exchange beers and watch the upcoming fights together, in a more social environment.
How to play boxing in virtual reality?
With thanks to Olocus, users can now actually practice boxing in a virtual reality setting.
The Thrill of the Fight (a virtual reality platform) is that it’s a 360-degree room-scale setting that turns your playspace into a virtual boxing ring.
The technology allows you to move around and put yourself in the shoes of a fighter.
To get started, you will need to get yourself a rear sensor – in order for the tech to detect your movements.
To have the optimum fighting experience, it’s essential that you have a large enough area to allow sufficient movements both forwards and backwards.
To enjoy this full experience you will require:
- A large(ish), clear playspace
- A rear sensor
A top tip is to clear your playspace completely (as much as you can) before fighting – and be mindful of wardrobes and any other obstructions too!
What’s the future of virtual reality boxing? – Could it be a true ‘walk-around’ experience?
With multiple camera offerings, NextVR certainly has the potential to showcase even more than they already do at present.
But I think every boxing fan is waiting for the day that they get to experience a true walk-around experience – and virtual reality could well be the answer.
There are talks that with a manipulating control setting, users of the technology will be able to actually walk around the ring – surely this will be ‘the best seat in the house?’
If this happened, it would allow viewers to approach the fighters, step a side or move back according to their viewing preference.