Twilight Of Kings: The Tragic Decline Of Boxing

There was a time in boxing where athletes would transcend to heights of greatness that could rival the Gods of old.  A time that the trivial pursuit of endorsement deals and pay-per view shares were non-existent and irrelevant. A time where a simple man from humble beginnings could be the idol of a nation, and a hero to millions.

Unfortunately these days seem long forgotten and seemingly buried, caught up in the new age of gladiatorial cage fights. I say "new age" simply because this is nothing new at all, simply recycled and outlined to satisfy modern human nature to view blood and violence. Some would argue that the sport of boxing is just the same and in many ways it is with the exception of a few subtleties.

In the early and mid 20th century the sport of boxing has been a huge engine for social and racial reform. Notably with Jack Johnson becoming the first African-American heavyweight champ in 1908. Being the son of former slaves in a time where racial tensions were extremely volatile, he appeared regularly in press, radio, and movies.

Max Schmeling, a German boxer who became the world champ in 1930 never supported the Nazi Regime but was none the less drafted. At the end of the war he frequently visited American troops giving autographs and taking pictures with the soldiers.

James J. Braddock, an Irish American boxer during the Great Depression overcame financial burdens and physical odds to become the champ in 1935. He inspired many and forever became dubbed as "The Cinderella Man."  

Joe Louis winning the title in 1937, would later enlist in the Army during World War II, although he was not deployed for combat he fought many charitable bouts raising money for the war effort. After being promoted to Sergeant, he was awarded the Legion of Merit medal, which catapulted him to the status of National hero.

These are just a few examples of how the sport of boxing has been a bridge to bring different cultural and social classes together. Prize fighting has always been the gentleman form of brutality and has produced multiple memorable fighters in different weight classes from around the world. Men who not only inspire and instill hope, but have also been role models.   

In more recent years however, the sport has gone wayward of being the juggernaut that it once was. Fighters argue more over their purses than they throw punches, greedy promoters double deal and cheat to line their own pockets. Finally, the popularization of MMA factions has gone to take away from the majority fan base of boxing.

This is in no way to defame or discredit any Mixed Martial Arts organization or the fighters who participate. Quite the reverse, I respect any man who has the guts to risk to it all in the ring to prove that he is a better fighter. The real difference between the two sports honestly is like comparing malt liquor and champagne. You get the same end result from both, its just a matter of which you prefer to consume.

I honestly miss the days of crowded living rooms, loud mouth fans, and the sound of Micheal Buffer's "Let's get ready to rumble!" Boxing is much more than a video game or a cheesy scene for a porno flick. It is a sport with a long and rich tradition and is in much need of a resurgence.