Mayer: The Dark Side of Trash Talk in Boxing

Boxing is distinct in that it involves a significant amount of trash talk, followed by the actual fight where opponents exchange blows. Mikaela Mayer, a three-weight world champion since October and recently signed to Jake Paul's Most Valuable Promotions, takes a pragmatic approach to her sport, acknowledging its pitfalls. She recalls the hate she faced after her first professional career defeat to Alycia Baumgardner by split decision four years ago. "I think the toughest time for me was after my first loss. I was dealing with the pressures of my own career and goals, feeling like I'd failed myself. Then, I'd go online and the world would be criticizing me," Mayer shared with Sky Sports. "Because we're the ones engaging 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." However, Mayer credits her team with helping her regain confidence, returning to the ring six months later to debut at lightweight and clinch the WBC interim lightweight title. "It's not easy to deal with, but over time, you learn to navigate better with a good team, management, and friends who keep your spirits high. Even when you're unsure about the outcome, you've got to keep showing up with a solid support team." Promoting fights is part of a boxer's routine, but Mayer has learned that even in the face of losses, it's essential not to let criticism get the better of you. "I definitely took a step back from social media after my first loss. It took me a couple of years to get back to that mental state. I'm good now, but looking back, I was really struggling. My advice would be: don't let criticism hold you back and disappear from what you've built. Keep the momentum going, stay strong mentally, block out the noise, and keep building your fan base. It's not easy, but time and experience help." This dilemma is not unique to boxing but is faced by sportswomen across various disciplines. While athletes aim to promote themselves and their sports, they become vulnerable to online toxicity. As Georgia Evans, a Wales and Saracens rugby international, told Sky Sports about the social media abuse she faced 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 huge, and we can show our personalities, which is a new world for us. We have to put ourselves out there to achieve equality, whereas men don't have to do as much social media. That's the big thing. We're fighting for equality but must acknowledge the differences that make women's sport incredible." Mayer also emphasizes that social media is a tool for female boxers to promote themselves but encourages them to find a unique selling point. "I've told girls coming into the sport that it's not enough just to be a good boxer. You have to look the part, promote yourself, and do extra things. Being a good boxer isn't enough. Find something that separates you from everyone else, something that will catch the fans' attention and make them want to see you."