"Boxing is not, and has never been, a perfect sport. Even in the throes of an enthralling duel like Joseph Parker and Fabio Wardley's last Saturday night, you might find yourself shrinking into your sofa under the violence or bursting forth in rage at a controversial stoppage. It depends on your threshold for violence, but the violence itself is just"
"Yet there has always been enough to keep us going. Again, Parker versus Wardley - whatever you think about the referee's call in the 11th round - was a beguiling exhibit of pugilism, one to replenish wavering fandom in some corners and ignite burgeoning interest in others. But it feels like boxing tends to give with one gloved hand and take with the other."
Boxing contains enduring imperfections alongside compelling drama. Violent exchanges can provoke discomfort or exhilaration depending on individual thresholds. The sport carries complex layers including political influence, physical suffering, and historical criminal associations. High-profile bouts can both restore wavering interest and provoke anger over contentious stoppages. The Parker–Wardley fight illustrated boxing's capacity to enthral while exposing refereeing controversies that divide opinion. Fans often tolerate moral and safety concerns because technical skill, rivalry, and spectacle sustain engagement. The sport's simultaneous appeal and flaws create a persistent tension that keeps boxing culturally and emotionally resonant.
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