Mikaela Mayer, a three-weight world champion, has spoken candidly about the harsh realities of being a professional boxer, where trash talk is commonplace and online hate can be overwhelming. Despite her recent success, including a multi-year contract with Jake Paul's Most Valuable Promotions, Mayer is aware of the pitfalls of her sport, including the intense scrutiny and criticism that comes with it. She recalls her first professional defeat, which left her feeling like she had failed herself, and the subsequent online backlash that made her question her own worth.
However, with the support of her team and a newfound confidence, Mayer was able to bounce back and continue pursuing her goals. She advises young athletes to find ways to navigate the challenges of social media and online criticism, emphasizing the importance of staying strong mentally and not letting the hate win. Mayer also acknowledges the unique challenges faced by female athletes, who often have to work harder to promote themselves and their sports, while also dealing with online toxicity and sexism.
She encourages them to find their own unique selling point and to use social media as a tool to build their brand and connect with fans.