I've been very critical of the sport of boxing over the years and I truly believe that last night's fight supports my frustration. I miss the days when boxing was not just a big deal - like last night's fight - but was also a draw and interest moving forward. When titles meant something and when fans were a priority.
Sure, things have changed, and I'm not blaming either Mayweather or Pacquiao, but I really, really, really, reaaaaaaaaaaaalllllly believe that last night's fight put another nail in the coffin of boxing causal interest and pay-per-view as we know it.
Was I disappointed? No. I had friends over, reveld in the social/pop culture aspect of the fight for a bit, had a good time, and enjoyed what there was of the packed sports day (Kentucky Derby, Spurs/Clippers) as well as this fight. My biggest disappointment is more so what this means for the sport moving forward. Actually, check that, it was Jamie Foxx's rendition of our national anthem. That was awful. Like really bad.
Nonetheless, for me, this was your standard Mayweather fight. I wasn't blindsided or had high expectations, because he fought his fight - defense and accuracy. The hype may have fooled non-fans and casual fans into expecting some type of all-out brawl between two guys who hated one another which was far from reality. It's probably why both are $300M richer this morning.
I understand those who have issues with Mayweather, from his issues with domestic abuse, his arrogance/confidence (take your pick), or his love of money. However, again, any argument towards Mayweather "dodging" or "not fighting" is ill-advised. Especially, when he landed 60+ more punches than Pacquiao.
Also, it felt like Pacquiao fell into the same pace other fighters do against Mayweather. I truly was expecting him to bring his more aggressive style against Mayweather. In many aspects, this fight looked five years too late. Another issue with boxing.
In the end, last night's fight will be known for nothing else than the hype, the money, and the overall disappointment. Which truly is a shame, and a far cry from other notable fights, i.e. "Rumble in the Jungle" with top billing and hype.
To me, this fight further hurt the sport of boxing by discouraging casual fans and others who were disappointed by the overall entertainment value of the fight. After this fight, what else is there? Who else is there? Can any boxing fan trust to get their money's worth on an event purchase? Will any casual EVER trust another purchase? Especially when the undercard was just as lackluster and one-sided. If the pay-per-view concept wasn't in jeopardy already, it will be moving forward.
Sure, boxing may have raked it in last night, but it might have been at the risk of its future. Congrats to Mayweather and Pacquiao. But this fight may have been the very last one, for a long time, that anyone cares about. And sadly, it wasn't even memorable.