There’s been plenty of hype around this fight. It’s been building up for an incredibly long time, for obvious reasons. As I’m sure you all know by now, it was recently confirmed by both competitors as well as Dana White, head of the UFC. Am I the only person this annoyed by the whole thing?
Firstly, it’s not necessary. Both are respected champions and could be said to be masters of their respective sports. They’ve reached the top, and cemented their places in the upper echelons of the sporting world. Now, they fight each other. In what field? The fight is going to be put down as a boxing match, which obviously severely limits McGregor’s chances and boosts Mayweather’s.
Above: McGregor spars Chris Van Heerden
It’s true that McGregor does indeed have some boxing background, and obviously being a professional fighter, he’ll pick up boxing fast in his training. But Mayweather is a purist in this field, as he’s only trained in this. The whole comparison reminds me of that advert where David Beckham and Jonny Wilkinson, two of the most beautiful feet in English sporting history, had a kicking contest.
It’s greedy. That’s what this comes down to.
The amount of money to be made from the fight is going to be eye-watering. Okay sure, there might be some pride on the line too. Ultimately though, it’s the greed of the people involved that is driving this event forward. The title of the best fighter in the world is up for grabs too; that is true on some level.
Don’t get me wrong, I think it’s going to be very interesting to watch. Both are undoubtedly talented fighters and athletes, and it’s going to be a spectacle. Maybe it is necessary to decide who the best fighter (in the weight class) is in the world?
Defend them as we may, it’s a farce. It degrades the names of the UFC and the various boxing federations, as well as being a slight on the sports of MMA and boxing.
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