Racism in Sports?

Recently there was a much anticipated fight between Conor McGregor and Nate Diaz. The crowd favourite, McGregor, is an outspoken, true to his word, say-it-even-if-it-upsets-anyone kinda guy. During the lead up to the fight, I couldn't help but think about how a previous bout was hyped up.

Floyd "Money" Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquiao. Leading up this fight it was clear who the crowd wanted to win based on his humble appearance (Pacquiao). Mayweather was just too obnoxious, 'up himself' and flaunted his wealth, his team name is 'The Money Team' egotistical much?

McGregor tapped out in the second round once Diaz had him in a choke-hold. McGregor handled the loss with much respect which reflected in his fans. Mayweather handled it as expected, whatever the exact opposite of sore loser, that was Mayweather.

When Pacquiao lost and the public was not happy. Pacquiao was not in the best shape so it was unfair from the beginning. Forgetting that it should be up to the athlete for their own physical and mental well-being, not that of the opponent. Mayweather was depicted as a wife-beater who is unable to fight a fair fight.

Obviously laying your hands on anyone outside of the ring is very bad. So I can accept that maybe why they are treated in the media differently because of Mayweather's history. As it seems, attitudes of the athletes are taken on board when choosing a favourite. Once Pacquiao came out and expressed his distaste for same sex marriage, attitudes toward him changed.

My main issue with racism in the sport is the negativity Mayweather was painted in comparison to McGregor. Mayweather was recently seen with a bodyguard. To a lot in the public it obviously reflected on his skill as an athlete. If he needs a bodyguard he can't fight without cheating (referring to Pacquiao's apparent back injury at the time of the fight). McGregor posted his own photos of himself on holiday while being flanked by his own bodyguards. Did the public make any accusations about this? Nope, can't a man just have a bit of privacy?


McGregor trash talks his way through interviews but everyone loves his personality. Like it's so refreshing to have someone speak with no cares in the world about how anyone else feels. Finally. No more of this "politically correct" nonsense. We want real people.

I guess in summary why does Mayweather's "realness" only bring him negativity? When he could very likely be the greatest pound for pound boxer in our time. They are in different sports but still worth comparing.