Mind games people play in a boxing ring

It’s Floyd Mayweather v/s Conor McGregor in the fight of the century. In a contest where you literally have two people beat each other up to a pulp, what role does the mind have to play?

It’s easy to suggest that in a field as physical as boxing, there’s no room for the mind. However, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Over the years and across sports, mind games have been one of the most common tactics used by athletes. These mind games can manifest in a variety of ways. It’s common for athletes to ‘talk smack’ about their opponents in an attempt to agitate them. It’s also common for athletes to make remarks in a public forum to put pressure on their opponents. However, there’s one tactic that’s used more than any other, and that is the use of fear.

Every person is afraid of something or the other. When it comes to athletes, this could be a fear of failure, a fear of disappointing fans, and sometimes, even a fear of their opponents. Often, fear is a weapon that’s used even before the battle begins. The MMA is infamous for its pre-fight staredowns, where the competitors attempt to intimidate each other.

Have a listen to what the Indigo 91.9 FM mind coach, Ian Faria had to say about fear.

It’s not just fear. It’s also the attitude a person has in general that greatly affects the outcome of a competitive event. Some people, they play to win, while others play to express their passion and love for the sport. Both outlooks have their advantages and disadvantages and can make a big difference in the ring. Those who play to win are willing to go any extent to win and hold the advantage in high-pressure situations. Here’s what Ian Faria had to say about the inherent nature of people.

Floyd Mayweather are Conor McGregor are set to battle it out on the 26th of August and it promises to be a battle of brains and brawns alike. All that remains is to see who will emerge victorious. Who are you rooting for?

This article appeared in , a concern of Asianet News Media and Entertainment Pvt Ltd.