Mayer: Athletes Face Unwarranted Criticism Online

Boxing is distinct due to the prevalence of trash talk, followed by the physical confrontation in the ring. Mikaela Mayer, a three-weight world champion since October and recently signed to Jake Paul's Most Valuable Promotions, acknowledges the harsh realities of her sport. She recalls the hate 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 goals, feeling like I'd failed myself. Then, I'd go online and the world would be criticizing me," Mayer told Sky Sports. "Because we engage in trash talk, people feel they can do the same. It's a struggle, as you're dealing with your own pain and trying to stay motivated, only to be bashed online and feel like the world hates you." Mayer credits her team with helping her regain confidence after the loss. 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. Even when you're feeling uncertain, just keep showing up." Promoting fights is part of a boxer's routine, but Mayer has learned that even in the face of losses, it's crucial not to let the haters win. "I pulled back from social media after my first loss. It took me a couple of years to recover mentally. My advice would be: don't disappear. Don't let criticism hold you back. Keep the momentum going, stay strong mentally, block out the noise, and keep building your fan base." 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, shared her experience of social media abuse 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. Social media is a tool for us to show our personalities and promote our sport, but it also exposes us to potential abuse." Mayer agrees that social media is essential for female boxers to promote themselves but emphasizes the need to find a unique selling point. "As a female boxer, it's not enough to just be good. You need to look the part, promote yourself, and find something that sets you apart from others. Being talented is not enough; you need to find a gimmick that catches the fans' attention and makes them want to see you."