Why Fans Are Easily Underwhelmed When the Results Are in Front of Their Eyes

Combat sports fans are a passionate bunch, constantly fueled by hype and anticipation leading up to marquee events. UFC 309 and the much-talked-about Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson fight are recent examples of how fan expectations can sometimes outpace the realities of the sport. Both events promised drama and excitement, yet the reactions have been polarizing, with some fans feeling underwhelmed when the dust finally settled. However, one fight at UFC 309 defied these odds and reminded us of the unpredictable beauty of combat sports.

The co-main event of UFC 309, a rematch between Charles Oliveira and Michael Chandler, lived up to—and arguably exceeded—the hype. Oliveira dominated Chandler, securing a unanimous decision (49-46, 49-46, 49-45). “Do Bronx” utilized his grappling expertise and striking precision, constantly keeping Chandler on the defensive. Chandler had his moments, especially in the later rounds, but Oliveira’s calm composure and skillful execution ensured his victory. Fans and pundits alike were surprised and satisfied on how the end of the fight went out, when Chandler got a second wind and went berserk and entertained the crowd, and ended up the rematch delivered exactly what fans hoped for: a thrilling and competitive battle.

The main event, on the other hand, saw Jon Jones defending his heavyweight title against Stipe Miocic. Jones dispatched Miocic with a spinning back kick and punches in the third round, earning a TKO victory.

While Jones’ performance was dominant and technically brilliant, many fans were left disappointed. Why? Perhaps it’s because Miocic, a revered heavyweight, was outmatched from the start, and the fight lacked the back-and-forth drama that fans yearn for. Despite Jones proving once again why he’s considered the greatest MMA fighter of all time, the lack of competitive tension as well as the lack of enthusiastic of Miocic in the fight dulled the excitement for some.

Then there was the much-hyped bout between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson. While the fight ended with Paul defeating Tyson via unanimous decision, it left many viewers dissatisfied. Tyson, at 58, showed flashes of his former self, but age and fatigue caught up with him quickly. Paul’s performance, while effective, failed to silence critics who felt the fight was more spectacle than sport. The controversies surrounding the event—including Paul’s pre-fight antics and Tyson’s subsequent frustration—only added to the narrative of an underwhelming showdown.

So why are fans often left feeling disappointed when the results are finally in? It boils down to expectations. Combat sports thrive on hype, with promotional material promising fireworks and historic moments. Fans invest emotionally, expecting every fight to deliver unforgettable drama. When a fight doesn’t match their envisioned storyline—be it an early finish, a one-sided bout, or a lack of explosiveness—the sense of letdown can be inevitable.

However, fights like Oliveira vs. Chandler II remind us that surprises still exist in the fight game. Sometimes, the story isn’t about a stunning knockout but rather the grit, strategy, and heart displayed by the fighters. Perhaps the lesson for fans is to temper expectations and appreciate the nuances of the sport. Not every fight will be an all-time classic, but every fight contributes to the ever-evolving tapestry of combat sports.

As fans, we must embrace the highs and lows. Because in combat sports, just like life, the most satisfying moments are often the ones we don’t see coming.