The culture of influencer boxing has taken over the sport by storm over the past few years. Moreover, it has reached a point where even boxing legends like Michael Buffer and promoter Eddie Hearn have become involved with some of these events. The latest of these events is the match between YouTuber KSI and short-notice replacement FaZe Temperrr, who comes in place of Dillon Danis
However, despite the main event being somewhat of a draw, the undercard does not seem to have good matches. In addition, there was some external drama at the weigh-ins.
Influencers throw hands at the weigh-ins of Misfits 004 leaving Michael Buffer disappointed
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Influencer B-Dave was supposed to face Temperrr in the fight but now that he will face KSI, the latter needed a replacement. Moreover, in a shocking surprise of events, another influencer Likkleman who is three feet tall comes on the stage to confront B-Dave. The two then quickly got into an altercation with Likkleman charging Dave as people tried to separate them.
Just another day of influencer boxing…
[📽️ @MF_DAZNXSeries] pic.twitter.com/dQ1FxJj38q— Michael Benson (@MichaelBensonn) January 13, 2023
This was not all as Michael Buffer who was also present on stage, gave a disappointing look at this clown show. The fans were also quick to jump on and express their disdain for this.
Fans react to B-Dave and Likkleman fighting at the weigh-ins
One fan rhetorically asked if this was a ‘circus show’ and not a boxing event.
Circus boxing??
— Chuk Morka (@ChukMorka) January 13, 2023
Another fan claimed these events were getting out of hand nowadays.
This shit is getting out of control
— James Roan (@jamesroan_) January 13, 2023
Moreover, a fan hilariously compared Likkleman with WBA lightweight champion Gervonta Davis.
Damn that’s crazy didn’t Gervonta Davis just have a fight last week
— levi 🎰 (@Shirokidz) January 13, 2023
Read More: KSI Warns Boxer Who Claimed a Potential Floyd Mayweather Contest in Boxing
A fan also stated that this was not boxing but rather a ‘clown fest’ set up to provide mindless entertainment for the masses and not good boxing matches.
This isn’t boxing. It shouldn’t be classed as the same sport. It should be called clown fest.
— Liam Dodd (@LiamDod56913309) January 13, 2023
A fan claimed that boxing was the toughest sport, and this was nothing more than a mockery of it. Moreover, this was more than disrespectful to fighters who put in their blood and sweat to achieve greatness.
Boxing is one of toughest sports you can do. You are making a mockery out of a sport we love. A mockery out of actual fighters who put blood sweat and tears into this sport. @DAZNBoxing @EddieHearn shame on on you
— Gary Sandford (@sandfoga) January 13, 2023
The fans were certainly not happy with these antics happening at the weigh-ins. Moreover, even Buffer felt a little uncomfortable when the influencers started trading punches. The event has constantly been making headlines, ever since it was first announced. First it was Danis pulling out of the card, and now this exchange.
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Boxing – WBA, IBF & WBO Heavyweight Titles – Anthony Joshua v Oleksandr Usyk – Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London, Britain – September 25, 2021. Michael Buffer before the fight between Anthony Joshua and Oleksandr Usyk Action Images via Reuters/Andrew Couldridge
While many argue that influencer boxing will bring more eyes to the sport and improve its popularity, some fear that this kind of brawls will only make the sport far less credible which might not be good for boxing in the long run.
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What did you think about Likkleman and BDave fighting at the weigh-ins? Let us know in the comments.
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