It’s 2024, and we all know that in the world of MMA and boxing, the art of hyping a fight has become nearly as important as the fight itself. These days, it seems like every other matchup is being billed as "the fight of the century." But does it live up to that title? Usually, not even close. So, if you're a fan, manager, or promoter looking to overhype an event to the max, here’s your step-by-step guide to turning an average matchup into an “unmissable” showdown.
Step 1: Declare It Personal, Even if It Isn’t
If two fighters have ever so much as exchanged a glance across a crowded gym, that’s enough to call it “bad blood.” Fabricate an elaborate backstory of tension and rivalry. Maybe Fighter A stepped on Fighter B’s shoelaces in 2019, or perhaps Fighter B “looked at Fighter A wrong” in the weigh-in line last year. Anything goes. Remember, even the faintest whiff of beef can be transformed into a full-on steakhouse special. The more absurd, the better.
Example: “These fighters have been waiting years to settle this score since that fateful day at the local Whole Foods.”
Step 2: Use Every Synonym for “Epic”
Forget about subtlety. The goal here is to convince people that the event will be life-changing. Avoid ordinary descriptors like “good” or “exciting.” Instead, lean heavily on words like “legendary,” “epic,” and “earth-shattering.” It doesn’t matter if this is a low-stakes undercard fight—make people believe the universe itself is at risk.
Example: “This clash will redefine the very meaning of competition. It’s an epic battle for the ages!”
Step 3: Milk the Weigh-In Drama
Weigh-ins are a prime opportunity for some hyped theatrics. Encourage fighters to stare each other down with the intensity of two lions in a territory dispute. If one fighter shoves the other, even lightly, immediately promote this as a near-brawl. Slow-mo replays, dramatic captions, and fan reactions help make a one-second moment seem like a preview of the chaos to come.
Example: “Things got heated at the weigh-in as both fighters refused to back down! Sparks are already flying!”
Step 4: Exaggerate Their Records and Abilities
If the fighters’ records don’t quite scream “GOAT status,” feel free to embellish. Maybe they’re “undefeated in their last two fights” (while conveniently ignoring any losses before that) or “the most dangerous striker in their weight class on Tuesdays.” Fans love hearing about records, so focus on any statistic that can be stretched without entirely breaking.
Example: “With 99% knockout power (in sparring), this fighter is a nightmare in the cage!”
Step 5: Bring in Random Celebrity Endorsements
Nothing screams “big fight” like celebrities who may or may not actually care about combat sports. Get celebrities, musicians, or influencers to weigh in with some generic opinions or “insider” predictions. If they don’t know anything about the fighters, all the better. The allure of Hollywood approval is sure to boost interest.
Example: “A-list celebrity Justin Famous says he can’t wait to see this fight, calling it ‘the one to watch.’”
Step 6: Start a Social Media War
Create drama on social media. Even if the fighters are friends, make them exchange a few “friendly” jabs online. It doesn’t have to be too hostile—just enough to get fans debating who’s “more savage.” The more people who see the “conflict” on Instagram or Twitter, the more will get hooked on the storyline.
Example: “Fighter A just fired a subtle shot at Fighter B on Twitter, and fans are losing it!”
Step 7: Release a Training Montage of Epic Proportions
No overhyped fight is complete without a dramatic training montage. Include scenes of fighters running through obscure landscapes, lifting weights like they’re Hercules reincarnated, and practicing moves they’ll never use in the fight. Add a booming voiceover that makes it sound like they’re training to save the world, not just to win a bout.
Example: “This training camp was unlike anything we’ve ever seen. Fighter B is leaving no stone unturned to prepare for this fight.”
Step 8: Use the “Legacy” Angle Liberally
If all else fails, bring in the word “legacy.” Nothing hooks fans like the suggestion that something bigger than a win is at stake. If one of the fighters is pushing 30, suggest that this could be their “last shot at greatness.” If they’re young, say they’re “poised to make history.” The more existential you make it sound, the better.
Example: “This fight isn’t just about victory—it’s about cementing a legacy.”
Step 9: Act Like This Could Break the Internet
Last but not least, never underestimate the power of FOMO. Imply that this fight will be so massive that the internet might crash. Use phrases like “breaking records,” “millions watching worldwide,” and “you won’t want to miss this historic event.” Even if only a few thousand people are tuning in, make them feel like this is the Super Bowl.
Example: “Get ready to witness the fight that will set viewership records and bring the internet to a standstill!”
Fight.TV Breaks Down The Art Of How To Overhype a Fight
The beauty of overhyping a fight is that it’s all about the showmanship. You’re not just promoting a match—you’re creating an event that will live on in fans’ memories (even if it’s for all the wrong reasons). So go big or go home. With a little creativity, you can take any ordinary fight and make it the "must-watch" event of the century… at least until next month’s card!
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