Boxing is distinct due to its culture of trash talk, followed by intense physical combat in the ring. Mikaela Mayer, a three-weight world champion since October and recently signed with Jake Paul's Most Valuable Promotions, acknowledges the harsh realities of her sport. She recalls the challenges she faced after her first professional defeat to Alycia Baumgardner by split decision four years ago.
"The toughest time for me was after my first loss. I was dealing with my own career pressures and the feeling of failure.
Then, I'd go online and see the world criticizing me," Mayer shared with Sky Sports. "Because we engage in trash talk, people feel they can do the same, making it a struggle to cope with your own pain and stay motivated." Mayer credits her team with helping her regain confidence.
She returned to the ring six months later, debuting at lightweight and clinching the WBC interim lightweight title. Mayer advises fellow athletes not to let criticism hold them back. "It's not easy, but with time and experience, you learn to navigate it better.
Surround yourself with a good team, management, and friends who keep your spirits high." Promoting fights is part of a boxer's routine, but Mayer has learned that even in defeat, it's crucial not to let negativity win. "After my first loss, I distanced myself from social media for a couple of years.
My advice would be to not let criticism hold you back and disappear from what you've built. Keep the momentum going, stay strong mentally, and block out the noise." This dilemma is not unique to boxing but is faced by sportswomen across various disciplines. While they strive to promote themselves and their sports, they become vulnerable to online toxicity.
Georgia Evans, a Wales and Saracens rugby international, spoke about the social media abuse she encountered during the Women's World Cup. "It's tough because we're fighting for equality with men, but we must acknowledge that women's sport is different," Evans said. Mayer also emphasizes the importance of female boxers finding a unique selling point to stand out. "As a female entering the sport, it's not enough to just be a good boxer.
You need to promote yourself, look the part, and find something that sets you apart from others. Being talented is not enough; you need a gimmick to catch the fans' attention and make them want to see you."