For the most part I think most understand and except the along for the entire ride mindset.Thats what makes it so much better than a team sport.On a team there is always a fall-guy...one to point to when things take a nosedive southbound.Where as in boxing sure you see the majority of fault pointed at glaucoma suffering judges or referees afflicted with shit on the brain....but inevitably its the soley the fighter who reaps the rewards and suffers the consequences on a glaring stage for all to see.It an immensely individual and emphasized manner for ones 'bad days' to be revealed.

I stick with my favs with rare exception.Following boxing is a tribal mind set,very emotional and immediate experience.The level of investment as fans can frankly only be truly understood by fellow fans.The highs and lows etc.At times you 'feel' a defeat...it effects everything you do in the real world.Shit I used to plan entire weekends around maybe one fight,a favorite guy fighting.Change work hours,cancel plans,lose girlfriends but at the end of the day I was all about 'living' that fight.Of course Ocd may play a role but for example....when Holyfield was Flattened by Bowe,I stopped watching boxing.Had zero interest...could care less as the one at the top of the mount for me was no more.Where was the motivation,inspiration etc? The thing of it is though...he still fights.Now as a fan I wont bash him but find myself dismissive,almost wanting him to be defeated soundly.Living on glory of the past days.He and I alike over his career.Odd really.It sometimes revolves around one or two fighters for some...which should change over time,you branch out and start appreciating different styles,stories and the bigger picture of the sport.When you live to see just one guy do well you ultimately are setting yourself up for a let down.Boxing is a metaphor for life...no doubt about it.One day your standing on top of the pile,and the next the pile is coming down atop you.But you have to get through...push on.