Dana found himself in a challenging situation.
He was filled with the urge to confront the provocateurs immediately, yet he restrained himself. This event had broken all previous ticket sales records, and both parties aimed to use this momentum to elevate the global interest in combat sports. Unfortunately, some individuals seemed to disregard the spirit of competition, opting instead to flaunt their wealth.
Ye Chen raised an eyebrow upon hearing the remarks. While he wasn't a business mogul, he couldn't quite wrap his head around the idea of exploiting someone's hard work for financial gain. It was evident to him that, at this moment, he had become a prized asset—a human cash register for those surrounding him. Paradoxically, it was this very exploitation that granted Ye Chen the opportunities he craved.
The truth was simple: both he and those around him had their own agendas, and their benefits intertwined. He recognized this as a chance to break free from the constraints set by the UFC. Dana White may have discovered him, but to suggest a close relationship was overstating things. His ascent in the boxing world was purely due to his relentless dedication and performance. Every step forward had been earned through sheer effort.
Ye Chen's income was significant, but he had never taken it for granted. "It's possible I might explore the boxing scene, but right now, I'm focused on my ultimate goal: securing the UFC middleweight championship. If a compelling opportunity arises, I wouldn't shy away from stepping into the boxing ring again," he stated, leaving everyone in the audience captivated.
He was intentionally vague, allowing both the boxing and UFC representatives to mull over the implications of his words. No one held a monopoly on his future. In truth, he stood in a position to reap the benefits from both sports.
His statement caught everyone off guard, leaving Dana and the boxing officials equally puzzled yet hopeful. Dana mused that had it been anyone else, they might have jumped at the opportunity to hastily transition into boxing, but Ye Chen was different. He was strategic, and the boxing world began to entertain hopes that he might soon grace their ring.
"My earnings exceeded my expectations, and like everyone else, I appreciate a good payday. But it's not just about the money," he continued, a fire igniting in his words. "This experience taught me that I have areas still in need of growth. I don't intend to rest on my laurels because of my earnings; my journey as a fighter is far from over. With the time I have, I aim to deliver nothing but exhilarating performances for my supporters. I want to keep climbing to reach new peaks."
To Ye Chen, the astonishing figure of $300 million didn't come as a shock; his savvy team had prepared him with the figures that showcased their success. His contract stipulated a flow of updates on pay-per-view sales and advertising revenues, shaping his understanding of his impact.
Fans erupted in support, chanting his name. Ye Chen embodied the essence of a true warrior, unlike many who, after securing substantial financial success, retreat from the competitive ring or succumb to a life of leisure and neglect.
The atmosphere heated up as the interviewer shifted topics, commenting, "Many boxers have issued challenges to you, and I can only imagine the number will increase after this. One name that comes to mind is the legendary Mayweather. Both of you are undefeated, shattering records for single-fight earnings and viewer numbers. Would you consider a matchup against him?"
The crowd buzzed with anticipation, eager for the potential face-off to unfold.
Ye Chen's gaze traveled to the audience, where he noticed a figure moving toward the spotlight. It was none other than Mayweather himself, a titan in the sport. His enduring appeal wasn't limited to his skill; charisma and showmanship accompanied his prowess. Now, as he entered the ring for what could be a historic moment, the tension was palpable.
Mayweather's ambition shimmered in the air. Though he longed for a lucrative bout with Ye Chen, he hesitated. The path hadn't been easy, and the level of Ye Chen's talent was more formidable than he initially anticipated. Yet, that drive for success compelled him to take the stage.
As he took the microphone, the crowd fell silent in eager anticipation. "You think you can end my streak? Every opponent who has faced me has said the same before stepping into the ring. Most believed it, too. Yet here I stand, undefeated. There are still boxers out there avoiding me, and let's not pretend otherwise—this superstar next to me has consistently chosen those I'm already defeated," he declared, his voice robust and assertive. "What makes him think he has what it takes to take me down?"
The room vibrated with the energy of rivalry and ambition. Here was the makings of a showdown that promised thrills, tension, and drama—a matchup that could capture the world's imagination and redefine legacies. The stage was set, and the audience could feel it—the spark of greatness hung in the air.