In a discussion about a fighter's career decisions, Ben Askren articulates the internal conflicts athletes face regarding reputation and fear of failure. He suggests that the thought of being perceived as afraid can be a greater motivating factor than the actual competition itself. Askren believes that despite the risks, the fighter is likely to challenge a formidable opponent like Tom Aspinall. He argues that maintaining a champion's image outweighs the potential fallout from losing, emphasizing the psychological aspects of a fighter's choice to engage or withdraw from a fight.
The idea that people would think he is afraid means more to him than going out there and fighting him and taking the chance.
Especially when there's a real possibility that he just outclasses Tom Aspinall. You don't know.
I think that he will fight him. I don't think they'll need to strip him, I think he'll fight him.
The idea that he ran is going to be too strong of a pull for him as he goes into the next phase of his career.
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