Two or three years ago, these popular fighters were staples on the top 20 p4p lists. In the case of Calzaghe, he was in the top 5.
While Joe C never cultivated a huge following (his 24/7 and fight with Jones didn't set the world on fire), he was always able to fill his house and earn nice paychecks.
Let's face it, whites are a majority in the economically significant markets, and popular white fighters always do well at the gate. As such, Hatton was able to get large crowds to follow him. Crowds that both Mayweather and Pacquiao exploited. Pavlik had the bulk of the crowd behind him at Boardwalk Hall. He was able to get people to drive from Youngstown, OH to Atlantic City (http://www4.vindy.com/content/local_regional/293786655400139.php). A 400+ mile, 7 hour trip.
Now, each of these three fighters have been embroiled in their own drug scandals. In Pavlik's case, only alcohol is mentioned.
I wish all three the best to overcome their problems and to do well in LIFE. Never mind boxing.
Sometimes, I think that we as fans forget that the work these guys do provides us with countless hours of entertainment - whether watching or talking about them. I see fighters and their families attacked for drug problems. Let's get beyond that. These are people with futures and families.
Best wishes. Especially to Kelly.
Boxing is a dangerous sport not just because you hit and get hit but mentally its a dangerous sport, Most boxers NEED counselling IMHO because its not just a normal sport like the rest.
i agree especially in calzaghe's case. it must feel awful knowing he destroyed so many peoples lives with his devastating knockouts.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c217/natas206/accuracy.gif
Boxing is a dangerous sport not just because you hit and get hit but mentally its a dangerous sport, Most boxers NEED counselling IMHO because its not just a normal sport like the rest.