Mikaela Mayer’s Surprise Team Split: What’s Next for the Boxing Star?

Former unified world champion Mikaela Mayer has stunned the boxing world by announcing her departure from her long-time team. This move comes after a series of controversial split-decision losses and has fans speculating about her next steps in the sport.

Mayer, who previously held the WBO and IBF super-featherweight titles, faced Alycia Baumgardner in a highly anticipated match on the Claressa Shields vs. Savannah Marshall card in October 2022. Although the fight was fiercely competitive, Baumgardner emerged victorious. Many viewers, however, felt Mayer had done enough to secure the win.

Undeterred, Mayer rebounded with two points victories in 2023. She then moved up to the welterweight division to challenge Natasha Jonas in Liverpool. Yet again, the decision was controversial, with Jonas winning 96-95 on one of the judges’ scorecards, leaving fans and analysts alike questioning the outcome.

Amid talks of a rematch with Jonas, Mayer’s plans seemed uncertain. Another potential opponent, WBO welterweight champion Sandy Ryan, was also on the radar. However, promoter Eddie Hearn pointed out the logistical challenges of arranging a fight between Mayer and Ryan, who both trained at the DLX Boxing gym in Las Vegas. Despite these complications, Mayer announced her split from the team, indicating a desire to pursue a title bout against Ryan.

Mayer expressed her frustration on social media, stating, “I’ve had the same team my entire career. I’m loyal to the bone but I have boundaries & they’ve been crossed.” This declaration highlighted the depth of her dissatisfaction and her readiness to seek new opportunities.

On the other side, Sandy Ryan, who has been gaining confidence after defeating Terri Harper with a fourth-round stoppage, welcomed the challenge. Ryan, willing to fight anyone her manager Brian Peters suggests, stated, “I’m ready for anybody.” Despite this willingness, potential domestic unification bouts with other British fighters, such as Natasha Jonas and Lauren Price, could complicate a matchup with Mayer.

As Mayer embarks on this new chapter of her career, the boxing community eagerly awaits her next move. Her determination and willingness to overcome setbacks suggest that she remains a formidable presence in the sport.