Exclusive - Adam Smith set to become Sky Sports' Head of Boxing

BoxRec News understands that Adam Smith, long serving boxing broadcaster and commentator, will take a step up in the Sky Sports' organisation to become their Head of Boxing.

Whatever one thinks of Smith's broadcasting style, the man is obviously a passionate and knowledgeable fan of the sport - a good base from which to start.

However, his job description will be very different and require new qualities, including tough negotiating skills with experienced promoters, some of whom he might already be on very friendly terms with. Much of that bonhomie will have to go out of the window if he is to ensure boxing followers are to get value for money.

As a fan though, Smith will surely have an excellent insight into what his fellow fans want - and which matches are not of the quality required to be sponsored by subscribers' fees.

Chris Brown, an executive producer who was in charge of boxing at Sky, was reported to have been escorted out of Sky's Isleworth HQ in September after being suspended from work during an investigation into his treatment of Sky's boxing staff.

Sky refused to comment then due to an ongoing disciplinary enquiry. Presumably, the broadcaster will make the situation clear when announcing Adam Smith's promotion.