Mayweather vs. Pacquiao: How casual and mainstream fans perceive Floyd vs. Manny (video game)
With the highly anticipated “Fight of the Century” between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao well in the boxing world’s rear view, did the projected most lucrative prizefight in history enhance or diminish the mainstream sports fan’s perception of the fringe American pastime?
Most observers believe the action, or lack of it, during the May 2 spectacle didn’t do anything to reinvigorate its casual fanbase.
Hall of Fame fighter turned boxing promoter Oscar De la Hoya tweeted these messages to his followers proceeding Saturday night’s event from Las Vegas:
“Sorry boxing fans,” tweeted the Golden Boy. “Can’t wait for real action next week @Canelo vs @Kirkland @HBO. Call me old school but I like the fans getting their money’s worth by watching an action packed fight.”
“I’m just not into the boxing, running style. I like jumping out of my seat because a fight was existing and the fans got their money’s worth.”
One could argue that De la Hoya, after promoting Mayweather’s previous nine events, was understandably bitter about being snubbed from Floyd’s most recent and most lucrative PPV “showcase”.
But upon reading and hearing commentary from various social media outlets, the Golden Boy’s message seems to echo the sentiment of most casual and mainstream viewers.
To reinforce the overwhelming fan perception, boxing die-hards will undoubtedly get a chuckle from the attached fan-made video, which genuinely seems to emulate the attitude of the vast mainstream sports community in America after witnessing the May 2 bout between Mayweather and Pacquiao.
And while most knowledgeable fight fans will argue that mainstream America doesn’t know “feces” about the Sweet Science, their seemingly valid point is a moot one. To become a big-time commodity in the American sports landscape on a consistent basis, the fringe pastime needs the approval of the casual observer.
Although the die-hard followers of boxing continue to be the sport’s lifeblood, a strong mainstream following is essential for some regular and much needed growth.
Will “Mayweather vs. Pacquiao” prove to be a blessing or a curse for the Sweet Science?
The ultimate judge and jury of the sport, the paying customers, will always have the final say, and only time will be able tell us whether or not the highly anticipated May 2 event was truly a success.