Mikaela Mayer, a three-weight world champion, has spoken candidly about the harsh realities of trash talk in boxing, revealing that the constant barrage of hate and criticism can be overwhelming. "Boxing is unique in that it involves a lot of trash talk, and then we step into the ring and physically fight each other," she explained.
Mayer, who recently signed a multi-year contract with Jake Paul's Most Valuable Promotions, has experienced her fair share of setbacks, including a split decision loss to Alycia Baumgardner four years ago. "The toughest time for me was after my first loss. I was dealing with the pressure of my own career goals, and then I'd go online and see the world criticizing me," she told Sky Sports. "It's like, because we're the ones talking trash, they feel they can talk trash too.
It's a struggle because you're trying to cope with your own pain and stay motivated, but you're being bashed online and it feels like the world hates you." Mayer credits her team with helping her rebuild her confidence, and she returned to the ring six months later to clinch the WBC interim lightweight title. She advises fellow female boxers to find a unique selling point to set themselves apart from their rivals.
"It's not enough just to be a good boxer. You have to look the part, promote yourself, and find something that separates you from everyone else," she said. Mayer also emphasized the importance of staying strong mentally and not letting criticism hold you back. "Don't fall off social media, don't let the haters win.
Keep showing up, keep building your fan base, and block out the noise," she advised.