The media wasted no time. Damon's refusal of the boxing challenge spread across headlines, sparking debate across different outlets and Chirper threads.
Some analysts were disappointed, arguing that Damon had the chance to restore MMA's reputation in boxing. "If anyone could do it, it's Damon Cross," one article wrote. "He has the hands, the composure, and the discipline. But by stepping away, he leaves the narrative untouched, MMA guys can't hang in the boxing ring."
Others defended his decision, pointing out how meaningless the callout was.
A podcast clip was replayed on countless channels, the same loud voices insisting Damon was scared, while real fight fans countered that he had nothing to prove in boxing. "He's a two-division UFA champion, undefeated, and weeks away from defending his title again," a commentator noted. "Why would he waste his time on sideshows?"
On Chirper, opinions were just as split:
