Boxing stands out for its unique blend of intense pre-fight banter and in-ring physicality, as noted by Mikaela Mayer, a three-weight world champion. Despite her recent successes, including a multi-year contract with Most Valuable Promotions, Mayer remains grounded about the sport's challenges. She recalls her first professional loss to Alycia Baumgardner, which was followed by intense online criticism. "When you're dealing with your own pain and trying to stay motivated, and then you're bashed online, it feels like the world hates you," Mayer shared with Sky Sports.
This experience, however, made her stronger, thanks in part to her supportive team. Mayer advises fellow boxers not to let criticism hold them back, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a strong mental state and not disappearing from social media and the public eye after setbacks. This dilemma is not unique to boxing but is faced by many sportswomen who must navigate the fine line between promoting themselves and their sports while avoiding online toxicity.
As rugby international Georgia Evans pointed out, women in sports often have to be more proactive in promoting themselves on social media to achieve equality with their male counterparts, but this also makes them more vulnerable to abuse. Mayer agrees that social media is a crucial tool for female boxers but suggests that finding a unique selling point or 'gimmick' can help them stand out and attract fans in a competitive field where talent alone is not enough.