Shawn Merriman has been “Lights Out”, for the San Diego Chargers, since years ago. While injuries struck the promising young defender during his 5th NLF Season, “Lights Out’ lives on through his “Lights Out Xtreme Fighting”. The Las Vegas MMA product, which can be seen on Fubu TV, is gaining popularity.
Shawn Merriman isn’t going to fight, but he would love to. Former NFL star Shawn Merriman would love to fight. He’s busy making “Lights Out Xtreme Fighting”, a must-see television event, a fan experience.
He says that spanstyle=”color: #000000 ;”>”We’re in Fubo Sports, and we are currently (a top-five most-watched show) and growing. “I am a huge advocate of fan engagement, because it drives the business.” We are increasing viewership by 70 percent per fight .”
Lights Out Xtreme Fighting gets more coverage on Bally’s TV, Merriman says.
It is easy to watch the action by flipping through the channels of Cox Cable. Young promising fighters compete for their big break. There are fewer rounds per episode and more fights. Fast-paced fights keep viewers entertained and make them want more.
Vegas Legal Magazine spoke with Merriman about his Lights Out Xtreme fighting venture, his NFL Career, and his feelings about the Raiders’ coming to town. Merriman proudly declares that he will always be a Raider hater. ).
Merriman’s rival, Tom Brady, is the G.O.A.T. Tom Brady. Former Chargers player says Brady is the best opponent he has ever faced.
Tom Brady will be the first on that list. Merriman said that Brady’s competitiveness and willingness to do whatever it takes to win set him apart from others.
Shawn Merriman Q&A for Vegas Legal Magazine
Vegas Legal Magazine: What made you decide to start Lights Out Xtreme Fighting League in Las Vegas, Nevada? Was it important to you that the Ultimate Fighting Championship started in Las Vegas?
Shawn Merriman, I founded Lights Out Xtreme Fighting in 2019. I’ve been involved with the sport for 17+ years. Jay Glazer of Fox Sports introduced me to Randy Couture back in 2006. In 2006, I began training to improve my balance, hands and leverage when playing football.
Lights Out: What was the main reason you started Lights Out Lights Out? What is the current state of your company?
SM: It was a passion of mine, but (I also) had a lot of experience in production. After my retirement, I went straight into broadcasting TV for NFL Network and Fox Sports. I was able to work with the best directors, producers and engineers. The transition was made easier for me because I knew how TV worked.
Do you plan to fight in Lights Out?
SM: I am the one running the show, and I would love to fight in LXF. If you are not committed, then I will tell you to stay away from fighting. You can play football or basketball, but you cannot play fighting. I love to promote the next generation of superstars. To stay fit, I still go to training camps and spar at least once a week.
VLM: What’s the main attraction in Lights Out? What is the breakout star of Lights Out?
We are transitioning athletes who have left other sports. More and more athletes are retiring from their sport at an early age. Yet, they still want to be competitive. We give them the platform to compete.
You’ve used a unique way to package the Lights Out battles. What is the marketing strategy for Lights Out as a whole?
SM: Yes. I was lucky to be able to play in the largest sports platform of the country (the NFL). So, I was fortunate to have a large base of supporters on both social media and traditional media. In the weeks leading up to an event, I do around 60 radio, television and podcast shows. I haven’t spent a penny on marketing.
VLM: Could you talk about your TV deal for Lights Out. What is your goal in terms of total viewers?
SM: Yes. We’re in Fubo Sports, currently (a), top 5 most watched (show) (and climbing). I am a huge advocate for fan engagement, because it drives the business. We are increasing viewership by 70 percent per match. The fans tell me that they like what we do. We will be airing the show a week after on Bally’s Network, which means more viewers.
VLM Do You Have Any Partnerships Planned – Or In The Works – With Another Fight League or Other Company?
SM: Yes. I will be making some major announcements about sports-tech to give our fans more information and data during our matches. I have always valued the verticals in the league to provide more information to our fans. They feel at home when they’re there.
What were your greatest accomplishments in the NFL? What is your greatest regret about your playing career?
SM: When I was in good health, I was the best at my job. After my fifth year, it became very difficult to remain healthy. I have few regrets. But I wish that I had gotten healthy and not pushed myself so hard.
VLM What have you learned from your NFL experience that has given you the confidence and skills you need to develop a league such as Lights Out Xtreme Fighting
SM: I have taken “discipline” to heart in my business. It’s (always) showing up on time. Time management is key. And being good at just one or two things. In everything I do, I am extremely focused. The last thing I do is prepare, like watching film of my opponent all week. I am constantly researching the market
See what else is out there and see how we can take our game to the next level.
VLM During your NFL career, who was the best player you have ever faced?
Tom Brady is always at the top. He was a winner because of his competitiveness and willingness to do whatever it takes to win.
VLM: Since your playing days, the NFL has changed their rules regarding what defenders are allowed to do. Would your style of play be different if you played today?
SM: I’d be playing for free, no doubt (laughs). I admire the NFL’s efforts to make football safer. It’s still football. Let the players play.
VLM: What do you think about the Raiders moving to Las Vegas? Do you have any interaction with Raiders players or staff?
SM: On the field and in the front offices, I have a lot of friends. But I will always be a Raider-hater (laughs ).
Valerie Miller, a journalist based in the Las Vegas Valley, is a multi-award-winning journalist. She can be reached at (702) 683-3986 or [email protected].
The article Vegas Legal Magazine Catchs Up With Former NFL Star Shawn Merriman Founder of Lights Out Xtreme Fighting first appeared on Vegas Legal Magazine.