Sandy Ryan is a former WBO welterweight champion Derby's Sandy Ryan says she considered retiring from boxing after successive defeats by Mikaela Mayer. Ryan, 31, lost her WBO welterweight world title to Mayer incontroversial circumstanceslast September before beingbeaten in the rematchin March. After two emotionally and physically draining encounters in the US, Ryan admitted she was devastated with her performance. "Mid-fight I fell asleep as in stopped reacting, stopped doing what I normally do," Ryan told BBC Radio Derby. "I remember being in the corner and my brother and [coach] Kay were like 'what's wrong?' I was in my own world. I just can't explain it. "It's not the best place to be in one of the biggest fight of your career." "After the fight, I thought I was done," she added. "I was finished boxing. And then a few weeks after, I had been back home for a while and after a few weeks the fight was still in me. I still have so much to give." Ryan's first encounter with Mayer was marred by an unknown personthrowing paintover the Englishwoman as she was leaving her hotel on fight night. Ryan described the scorecards in the first fight as "questionable" but had no complaints about the rematch, which was a unanimous points win for the American. She said camp was "mentally" tough and she suspects she carried a lot of the effects of their first dramatic fight into the rematch. "I tried to not bring it with me, but in the back of my head it was always there," she said. "I tried to be too relaxed and not be as aggressive or have that fire. But maybe when I look back, maybe I was too relaxed and not reacting to certain things which kind of made me a bit more calm. "In the fight game, yeah it's good to be calm but I am an aggressive fighter and I needed that. "I'm giving this another shot so I need to get that fight and anger back in me, balance it out." Ryan shared 20 rounds with American two-weight world champion Mikaela Mayer Ryan says she expects to make her return to the ring in August in the United Kingdom, with her management currently searching for an opponent. Cris Cyborg, a former UFC and PFL world champion in MMA, is one name being mentioned and Ryan asked her team to explore the possibility of making that match-up. The Brazilian has a 5-0 record in professional boxing, with her most recent bout in May. "Her profile is big," Ryan said of Cyborg. "I saw she was calling out Claressa Shields, which is just crazy. "It would be great - I'd be happy if they made that fight. She seems very confident, but it's boxing, she wouldn't beat me." Despite her interest in Cyborg, Ryan says it is more likely she will have a tune-up fight. "I know potentially my next fight won't be a big fight. I am coming off a loss so I have to build myself up," she said.
Ryan considered retirement after losses to Mayer
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Sandy Ryan Reflects on Defeats to Mikaela Mayer and Plans Return to Boxing"
Bbc News
7.9
TruthLens AI Summary
Sandy Ryan, the former WBO welterweight champion from Derby, has opened up about her struggles following consecutive defeats to Mikaela Mayer, which led her to consider retirement from boxing. The first bout in September saw Ryan lose her title under controversial circumstances, while the rematch in March ended with her suffering another loss by unanimous decision. Ryan expressed her deep disappointment in her performance, admitting that during the fight, she felt disengaged and unresponsive, stating, "Mid-fight I fell asleep as in stopped reacting, stopped doing what I normally do." This feeling of being detached during such a critical moment in her career was alarming for her, especially with her brother and coach noticing her lack of focus. After these emotionally taxing matches, Ryan contemplated stepping away from the sport, feeling as though she was done with boxing. However, after some time at home, she realized her passion for the sport remained strong, indicating that she still has much to offer in the ring.
Despite the setbacks, Ryan remains determined to return to boxing, with plans to fight again in August. Her management is currently looking for a suitable opponent, and one name being floated is Cris Cyborg, a prominent figure in MMA who has recently ventured into boxing. Ryan acknowledged Cyborg's growing reputation, stating that a match against her would be appealing, although she is realistically expecting to have a tune-up fight first. Recognizing the need to rebuild after her losses, Ryan emphasized the importance of reigniting her aggressive fighting style, which she felt was muted in her recent performances. She is committed to finding that balance of calmness and aggression to reclaim her position in the sport and is optimistic about her future in boxing, eager to demonstrate her capabilities once again.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article delves into the psychological and physical challenges faced by Sandy Ryan, a former WBO welterweight champion, following her defeats to Mikaela Mayer. It highlights her contemplation of retirement and her subsequent decision to continue boxing, offering a glimpse into the mental struggles athletes often endure after setbacks.
Purpose of the Article
The purpose seems to be to shed light on the emotional toll that competitive sports can take on athletes, particularly after significant defeats. By sharing her personal feelings and thoughts, Ryan aims to connect with fans and inspire others who might be facing similar challenges in their lives or careers. This narrative can engage the audience by portraying the reality of sports beyond mere victories and losses.
Public Perception
The article aims to create a perception of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. By detailing Ryan's struggles, it fosters empathy and support from the boxing community and beyond. It also emphasizes the importance of mental health in sports, potentially encouraging discussions around athlete well-being.
Omissions or Hidden Aspects
There does not appear to be any substantial information being hidden; however, the focus is predominantly on Ryan's experiences, which could overshadow broader issues in women's boxing, such as promotion, support, and financial stability in the sport.
Manipulative Elements
The article does not exhibit overt manipulative tactics. Instead, it presents Ryan's struggles in a way that could evoke sympathy and support, possibly enhancing her public image. The emotional language used might aim to generate a more profound connection with readers.
Truthfulness of the Content
The content appears credible, given that it features direct quotes from Ryan and reflects her personal journey. The details about the fights and her mental state seem genuine and align with the experiences of many athletes.
Community Reactions
This article is likely to resonate with sports enthusiasts, particularly boxing fans, and individuals interested in mental health advocacy. It may attract support from communities advocating for women in sports, as it highlights the challenges female athletes face.
Potential Economic and Social Impact
While the article primarily focuses on an individual athlete's journey, it can have broader implications for the boxing community by raising awareness about the mental pressures athletes endure. This could lead to increased discussions around mental health resources in sports, influencing sponsorships and funding towards athlete support programs.
Global Context and Relevance
This story does not have immediate global significance but contributes to ongoing conversations about athlete mental health in sports, especially in a post-pandemic world where such discussions have gained prominence.
AI Involvement
There is no clear indication of AI usage in the writing of this article. However, if AI were involved, it might have assisted in organizing the narrative or optimizing language for engagement. The emotional tone and personal anecdotes suggest a human touch, crucial for connecting with readers on a personal level.
In conclusion, the article conveys a relatable narrative about resilience in sports, aiming to inspire and connect with a broad audience while highlighting the mental health challenges athletes face. Overall, it maintains a high level of trustworthiness based on the personal account it presents.