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Tag: criticism
Troy Aikman says he hasn’t heard from the NFL about his officiating criticism
ESPN’s Troy Aikman pulls no punches when it comes to officiating blunders. And despite the league’s tendency toward the supersensitive when it comes to criticism of officials, Aikman says he’s never gotten any blowback from 345 Park Avenue.
“I never have,” Aikman told Jimmy Traina of SI.com. “I’ve never heard from the league.”
It’s possible that the league doesn’t raise its concerns to Aikman directly (as it should), but that it instead whines to his bosses instead. (Which has happened elsewhere. I’m told.)
Aikman realizes the job isn’t easy, but difficulty of profession doesn’t operate as insulation from criticism.
“I know the officials have a tough job,” Aikman told Traina. “The scrutiny that they’re under, as we’ve gotten more advanced with instant replay, those guys, it seems, have become more and more scrutinized.
“And the game has not become less controversial. It’s become more controversial. But then I just think we are at a point, and this is tipped a little bit because the league is partners with a number of these gambling services. So here you are promoting gambling, people are gambling more than they have ever before and those types of calls, there’s a lot at stake regardless, but especially when you’re considering there’s a lot of money that’s changing hands with these calls as well.
“So, I think that we owe it to the fans that we get it right, and I think that we are at a point and time where we can. We can get it more right. That was my position and just trying to lean on the NFL and say, ‘Hey, we gotta fix this. We gotta address this in the offseason.’”
He’s right. In late 2023, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones argued that the two teams in a given game submit to the possibility that the game’s outcome will be influenced by a bad call (which is always a good call for the other team). But as the NFL continues to profit from all things betting, those who have wagered on games aren’t making that same deal.
They don’t want to lose a wager based on a bad call. And, eventually and inevitably, there will be a sports-betting scandal that turns the NFL upside down.
Until it happens, the NFL will keep jamming sports books dollars inside its pockets. While also spending as little as possible to eliminate officiating errors.
Former NFL quarterback and current Fox Sports analyst Troy Aikman recently spoke out about his frustration with the officiating in the NFL, but he says he hasn’t heard from the league about his comments.In an interview on a sports radio show, Aikman criticized the inconsistency of the officials and questioned their ability to make the right calls on the field. He also expressed concern about the impact that bad officiating could have on the integrity of the game.
Despite his outspoken comments, Aikman says he hasn’t received any communication from the NFL regarding his criticism. He stands by his remarks and believes that it’s important to hold the officials accountable for their actions.
It remains to be seen if the league will address Aikman’s concerns or if they will continue to ignore his remarks. In the meantime, Aikman remains a vocal advocate for improving the officiating in the NFL.
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#Troy #Aikman #hasnt #heard #NFL #officiating #criticismSelena Gomez’s Deleted Post About Undocumented Immigrants Draws Criticism
On Monday, a day after Immigration and Customs Enforcement said in a statement that it had made 956 arrests as part of President Trump’s crackdown on undocumented immigrants, the actress and singer Selena Gomez posted an Instagram video to her 422 million followers in which she discussed the situation while crying.
She has since deleted the original post, but its short run online created quite a stir, with Mr. Trump’s “border czar” and numerous political commentators weighing in. One of the commentators called for Ms. Gomez, who was born in Texas, to be deported.
Immigration is a subject personal to Ms. Gomez, a star of the television show “Only Murders in the Building” and the Oscar-nominated film “Emilia Pérez.” In 2019, she wrote an essay for Time magazine in which she reflected on being the granddaughter of undocumented immigrants from Mexico who eventually gained U.S. citizenship. Her aunt, she said, crossed the border hidden in the back of a truck. Her father was born in the United States.
“Immigration is a divisive political issue,” Ms. Gomez wrote. “But immigration goes beyond politics and headlines. It is a human issue, affecting real people, dismantling real lives.”
In 2017, Ms. Gomez was an executive producer on the Netflix documentary “Living Undocumented,” which looked at the lives of eight families living in the United States. “I watched footage outlining their deeply personal journeys and I cried,” Ms. Gomez wrote in the Time essay. “It captured the shame, uncertainty and fear I saw my own family struggle with.”
With Mr. Trump quickly fulfilling his campaign promise to ramp up arrests and deportations of undocumented immigrants, Ms. Gomez was again moved to tears, this time on social media.
What was her original post?
Ms. Gomez, sitting in a beige-colored room and looking into the camera, said, “All my people are getting attacked, the children.” She was visibly distraught; her face appeared red from crying and her voice broke as she spoke. Wiping away tears, she added, “I don’t understand. I’m so sorry, I wish I could do something, but I can’t. I don’t know what to do. I’ll try everything, I promise.” Ms. Gomez’s video was captioned with the words, “I’m sorry” next to a Mexican flag emoji.
Why did she delete it?
After her post, Ms. Gomez was immediately hit with a great deal of negative feedback on all social media platforms, which she acknowledged in her Instagram stories. “Apparently it’s not ok to show empathy for people,” she wrote in a follow-up post that was also deleted.
What were the reactions to her post?
Thomas D. Homan, the acting director of ICE during Mr. Trump’s first term and current White House “border czar,” took issue with Ms. Gomez’s post. In an interview with Sean Hannity on Fox News, Mr. Homan suggested that Ms. Gomez’s empathy for deported immigrants was misplaced. “We’ve got a quarter of a million Americans dead from fentanyl coming across an open border. Where’s the tears for them?” Mr. Homan said.
Charlie Kirk, the founder of the conservative political group Turning Point USA, questioned on X why Ms. Gomez, an American, would identify with the undocumented immigrants rather than her fellow Americans. The political commentator Tomi Lahren said on X, “This is why we don’t take our political advice from Disney child stars.”
Among the most extreme reactions came from Samuel Parker, a Republican who sought to run for the U.S. Senate from Utah in 2018. He wrote a post on X in which he called Ms. Gomez’s grandparents “illegals,” despite their having been naturalized as U.S. citizens, and said, “Maybe Selena should be deported, too?”
Others took a more measured approach to Ms. Gomez’s tearful message. “This is an issue for some people that is extremely emotional,” Ashley Allison, a CNN political commentator and former staffer in the Obama and Biden administrations, said during a round-table discussion on the network. “I’m not going to demean Selena Gomez because she was emotionally enraged.”
She also received public support from a wide range of prominent people, including Michigan’s governor, Gretchen Whitmer; the former talk-show host Geraldo Rivera and the rapper Flavor Flav.
Has she responded to the criticism?
Yes. In an Instagram story, Ms. Gomez responded to Mr. Parker, writing, “Oh Mr. Parker, Mr. Parker. Thanks for the laugh and the threat.”
Mr. Parker pinned a screenshot of her message to the top of his X profile.
Selena Gomez’s Deleted Post About Undocumented Immigrants Draws CriticismSelena Gomez recently took to social media to share a post in support of undocumented immigrants, calling for compassion and understanding towards those seeking a better life. However, the post was quickly deleted after receiving backlash and criticism from some of her followers.
Many criticized Gomez for speaking out on a political issue, with some arguing that celebrities should stay out of politics. Others accused her of being out of touch with the realities of illegal immigration and the impact it has on communities.
While Gomez has been vocal about her support for immigrant rights in the past, this latest post sparked a firestorm of debate and controversy. Some defended her right to speak out, praising her for using her platform to raise awareness about important issues.
Regardless of where you stand on the issue, it’s clear that Selena Gomez’s deleted post has sparked a conversation about immigration and the role of celebrities in activism. What are your thoughts on this situation? Let us know in the comments below.
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Selena Gomez, undocumented immigrants, criticism, social media, deleted post, controversy, immigration issues, celebrity activism, public backlash, social justice, Selena Gomez Instagram, immigration debate
#Selena #Gomezs #Deleted #Post #Undocumented #Immigrants #Draws #CriticismGladiator II: Success Amidst Criticism And Challenges
The long-awaited sequel to the iconic film Gladiator, aptly titled Gladiator II, has made waves not only for its historical action sequences but also for the heated debates surrounding its lead actor, Paul Mescal. Released globally in November 2024, the film has grossed approximately $400 million within its first month, establishing itself as a notable financial performer during the holiday season.
Gladiator II, directed by Ridley Scott, has been received with mixed reviews, particularly focusing on Mescal’s performance. Critics have described him variously as “a pale imitation” of Russell Crowe’s portrayal of Maximus, the character immortalized during the 2000 original film, which won Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Actor. The pressure of stepping up to such iconic shoes can never be underestimated, and as insiders have disclosed, Crowe has taken a somewhat amused stance behind the scenes. “Russell doesn’t have anything against Paul personally, but when an actor struts around like a peacock and acts like an ass, it’s not a good look and deserves to be brought down a peg or two,” one insider shared.
The production of Gladiator II faced its share of logistical challenges. Filming locations included various spots across Scotland, known for their rugged terrain and historical significance. According to Arthur Max, the production designer, the team had to make on-the-fly adjustments, particularly when dealing with inclement weather and complicated set designs. Interestingly, Max revealed how some scenes were shot under unexpected conditions – such as using a parking lot to stage significant moments. “We had to build the tent for Maximus after we turned the shooting site to avoid the mud of the previous location,” chuckled Max, reminiscing over the difficulties faced during filming.
Despite these hurdles, the film’s box office is worth acknowledging. Gladiator II is not just riding on the coattails of its predecessor; it has grossed over $400 million, achieving the position of the #11 highest-grossing film of the past year. The film’s success has helped solidify Scott’s reputation, ranking him among the ten highest-grossing filmmakers of all time.
Notably, Denzel Washington’s role has also received praise, with insiders noting his presence served as a solid insurance policy for the film. Many audience members and critics praised Washington’s character depth, helping to offset the criticisms directed at Mescal. “You have to say bravo to the movie’s team because they managed to make the movie a hit almost without Paul’s performance,” one source stated.
Transitioning from the focus on box office to viewer reception, it becomes apparent how Paul Mescal’s defense rests on the support of his ensemble cast. While he has drawn heavy scrutiny, the film has thrived largely due to standout performances from Washington and Pedro Pascal. The dynamic of the supporting cast is perceived as being so strong, some critics argue, it permits Mescal to step aside when needed, allowing the narrative to shine without him overpowering it. The film was said to be cast as much to safeguard Mescal’s performance as it was to thread together powerful storylines.
Finishing the discourse around Gladiator II, the character of Paul Mescal within this cinematic tale opens up discussions about humility and the paths young actors tread. Having faced harsh criticism, Mescal is projected to take lessons from this experience as he ventures onto his next project, where he will portray Paul McCartney. “But he needs to approach the next big opportunity with less arrogance and more focus than he brought to Gladiator II,” cautions the insider. While Russell Crowe endured his share of high-profile lessons early on, Mescal’s future remains bright and promising, with his next roles possibly bridging the gap between initial critique and ultimate acceptance.
Gladiator II has left its mark not only as a sequel but as part of a larger narrative reflecting on legacy, performance, and the growing pains of early-career actors. Its ability to spark conversations about the industry and character portrayals showcases cinema’s enchanting yet challenging world.
Gladiator II: Success Amidst Criticism And ChallengesThe highly anticipated sequel to the epic film Gladiator has finally hit the big screens, and despite facing its fair share of criticism and challenges, it has emerged as a resounding success.
From the moment the sequel was announced, it faced backlash from fans and critics alike who questioned whether a follow-up to such a beloved and iconic film was necessary. Many believed that a sequel would tarnish the legacy of the original Gladiator, which won multiple Oscars and is still considered one of the greatest films of all time.
However, director Ridley Scott and the talented cast, including returning star Russell Crowe, were determined to prove the naysayers wrong. They poured their heart and soul into creating a sequel that honored the original while also bringing something new and exciting to the table.
The production of Gladiator II was not without its challenges, from budget constraints to scheduling conflicts, but the team persevered and delivered a film that exceeded all expectations. The action sequences were thrilling, the performances were captivating, and the story was gripping from start to finish.
Despite facing criticism for not living up to the perfection of the original Gladiator, the sequel managed to stand on its own and carve out its own place in cinematic history. It may not have won as many awards or accolades as its predecessor, but it was still a box office hit and garnered a loyal fanbase.
In the end, Gladiator II proved that success can be achieved amidst criticism and challenges. It may not have been a flawless victory, but it was a triumph nonetheless. And for fans of the original Gladiator, it provided a satisfying continuation of the story they loved so much.
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‘I love our look – I think it grows on you’: Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man creator defends the Marvel show’s animation style after fierce fan criticism
- Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man‘s creator has defended the show’s animation style
- Some Marvel fans have criticized how the series looks from a movement viewpoint
- Jeff Tramell says viewers should judge it after watching the whole season, rather than a two-minute trailer
Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man‘s showrunner has defended its animation style in the wake of fierce fan criticism.
Speaking to TechRadar ahead of the Marvel show’s premiere on January 29, Jeff Tramell implored viewers to “give it a chance” after some fans reacted negatively to how it looks. Tramell, who also acts as the series’ head writer and one of its executive producers, wants people to watch all 10 episodes before they comment on the animation techniques that have been used.
Ever since the Disney Plus animated series was first shown exclusively to D23 Expo 2024 members last August, fans have had plenty to say about the choice of animation. In the aftermath of said footage leaking online, threads on r/MarvelStudios, r/SpiderMan, r/MarvelStudiosSpoilers and other Reddit pages were full of comments labeling character movements as “weird”, “off-putting”, “awful”, “rough”, and “lazy”.
Fans haven’t held back over what they think about the show’s animation style (Image credit: Marvel Animation/Disney Plus) The negativity grew exponentially once the animated show’s first trailer – one of six big entertainment stories you might have missed over the 2024 holiday season – was released, too. Once the teaser was revealed in late December 2024, new threads on r/SpiderMan, r/MarvelStudios, r/MarvelStudioSpoilers, and other Reddit pages were similarly packed with people’s opinions on its animation. Indeed, from those saying Marvel was “trying too hard” and that the backgrounds look “empty”, to even harsher critiques suggesting it looked “ugly” and “dogs**t”, fans didn’t hold back as they passed judgment on the series’ animation style.
For what it’s worth, some observers who don’t believe the animation is as bad as it looks. Additionally, large swathes of Marvel’s global fanbase have reacted positively to the show’s art style, which honors the artistry of iconic Spider-Man comic book illustrators Steve Dikto and John Romita Jr. Even so, it seems the majority of viewers have already made up their minds about the Marvel Phase 5 TV show’s animation.
See you in class!Stream the two-episode premiere of Marvel Animation’s #YourFriendlyNeighborhoodSpiderMan January 29 only on @DisneyPlus. pic.twitter.com/LbC5yH7w1dJanuary 24, 2025
Tramell, though, isn’t giving up hope that those dissenters may change their minds once Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man launches on Disney Plus. Indeed, he believes that, once audiences see how the show looks and feels from a full episode standpoint, rather than the trailer’s cut-together format, some fans may admit they too quickly and harshly judge its aesthetic.
“We wanted to set the show apart [from other Spider-Man animated shows],” Tramell told me. “Regardless of how you feel about the show, you have to there’s nothing that looks like it. There’s no Spider-Man that looks like our Spider Man. I think it’s important to have one that’s ours, and that feels unique [and] very much of its own thing. So, we really wanted to find something that set us apart from everything else, and kind of drives audiences towards us. So if you see our Spider-Man in a line-up, you’re like ‘that’s Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man‘.
“I think our style grows on you,” he continued. “So, I would say ‘give it a chance’. I know there were a lot of initial thoughts about how it looked in the two minute teaser, but I’ll also say that teaser is super cut up. Once the show comes out, you’ll see those scenes don’t play in the way that they play in that trailer. So, just give it a shot, watch it, and let it grow on you. If it doesn’t, that’s fine, too. I love our look and I think everyone else who gives it a shot will do as well.”
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As the creator of Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man, I want to address some of the recent criticism our show has received regarding its animation style. I understand that some fans may have initially been taken aback by the unique look we have chosen for our series, but I truly believe that it is a style that grows on you.When we set out to create Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man, we wanted to do something different and innovative. We wanted to push the boundaries of traditional animation and create a visually stunning and dynamic world for our beloved web-slinger to inhabit. And while I know that change can be unsettling for some, I am confident that once fans give our show a chance, they will come to appreciate and even love the artistic choices we have made.
I am incredibly proud of the animation style we have developed for Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man. I believe it captures the essence of the character in a fresh and exciting way, and I hope that fans will eventually come to see it as a bold and imaginative interpretation of the classic superhero.
So to all the fans who have expressed doubts about our animation style, I ask you to keep an open mind and give Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man a chance. I think you will find that our look is not only eye-catching and visually stunning, but also perfectly suited to the dynamic and action-packed world of Spider-Man. Thank you for your continued support, and I hope you will join us on this thrilling animated adventure.
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#love #grows #Friendly #Neighborhood #SpiderMan #creator #defends #Marvel #shows #animation #style #fierce #fan #criticism
Trump shrugs off Elon Musk’s criticism of AI announcement: ‘He hates one of the people’
CNN
—
President Donald Trump on Thursday shrugged off an ugly back-and-forth between tech CEOs Elon Musk and Sam Altman that pitted one of Trump’s most visible lieutenants against a key participant in a massive $500 billion AI project Trump announced Tuesday.
Musk had undercut Trump’s Tuesday Oval Office AI announcement, casting doubt on his X social media platform that any of the participating companies had the money to fund it. But Trump Thursday told reporters at the White House that Musk’s commentary was just a case of bad blood, because he “hates one of the people in the deal” – not an indictment of the viability of the deal he had announced.
“No, he hates one of the people,” Trump said, in an apparent reference to Altman. “I’ve spoken to Elon, but—spoken to all of them, actually. The people in the deal are very, very smart people– but Elon, one of the people he happens to hate. But I have certain hatreds of people too.”
Shortly after Trump announced the new massive AI infrastructure investment between Altman’s OpenAI, Oracle and Softbank, Musk wrote on his social media platform X, “They don’t actually have the money. SoftBank has well under $10B secured. I have that on good authority.”
Pressed on Musk’s comments Thursday, Trump told reporters, “I don’t know if they do, but you know, they’re putting up the money– the government’s not putting up anything, they’re putting up money. They’re very rich people, so I hope they do.”
Trump had announced the investment will create a new company, called Stargate, to grow artificial intelligence infrastructure in the United States. The leaders of SoftBank, OpenAI and Oracle stood alongside Trump during the announcement. Their respective companies will invest $100 billion in total for the project to start, with plans to pour up to $500 billion into Stargate in the coming years.
Following the post, Altman and Musk have traded barbs on the platform, with Musk, who’s in an ongoing lawsuit with OpenAI, sharing former posts critical of Trump from Altman to his own X page.
Asked in a follow-up exchange if he was frustrated with Musk’s very public criticism of the AI announcement he helped broker, Trump demurred Thursday.
Musk’s barbs represented a notable takedown of a major White House project from someone that is in Trump’s innermost circle. As a sign of how involved Musk is in the first days of the administration, Musk said he was in the Oval Office on Tuesday as Trump signed a pardon for Ross William Ulbricht, founder of the dark web marketplace SilkRoad. Musk had also dispatched a top staffer from his SpaceX and X companies to help ensure the release of convicted January 6 rioters after Trump signed a blanket pardon.
But perhaps it should not be a surprise that Musk is going after an OpenAI initiative. Musk is in an ongoing lawsuit with OpenAI and its CEO Sam Altman, who was at the White House for the announcement. Musk, who has said he “doesn’t trust” Altman, claims in the lawsuit the ChatGPT has abandoned its original nonprofit mission by reserving some of its most advanced AI technology for private customers.
The companies involved in Stargate have not publicly disclosed how they will contribute the funds, but they don’t necessarily need the money in the bank to support it — they could raise debt or sign on other equity investors.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt on Wednesday rebuffed Musk’s comments, saying in a Fox News interview, “the American people should take President Trump and those CEOs’ words for it.”
CNN’s Hadas Gold contributed to this report
President Trump has responded to criticism from Tesla CEO Elon Musk regarding his recent announcement on artificial intelligence (AI), stating that Musk’s disapproval stems from personal bias.In a recent interview, Musk expressed his skepticism about the effectiveness of Trump’s AI initiative, stating that he believes the president lacks a comprehensive understanding of the technology. Trump, however, brushed off Musk’s comments, suggesting that the billionaire entrepreneur simply “hates one of the people” involved in the project.
Despite Musk’s concerns, Trump remains confident in his administration’s approach to AI development. The president has emphasized the importance of prioritizing American innovation and technological advancement in order to maintain a competitive edge on the global stage.
As tensions between the two high-profile figures continue to escalate, it remains to be seen how their differing perspectives on AI will impact future collaborations in the tech industry. Stay tuned for updates on this ongoing feud.
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Trump, Elon Musk, AI, criticism, technology, announcement, President, entrepreneur, artificial intelligence, politics, controversy
#Trump #shrugs #Elon #Musks #criticism #announcement #hates #peopleNFL WAGs: Trolling Hits Hard for NFL WAGs, and Girlfriend of Braxton Berrios Alix Earle Is No Exception—Here’s How It Affected Her and How She Developed Thick Skin Amid Online Criticism | NFL News
Braxton Berrios/InstagramSocial media can be a tough place, especially when people feel free to judge you based on a single post or video. Alix Earle, girlfriend of Miami Dolphins star Braxton Berrios shared how the first time she saw herself being criticized online, it was a shock to her system. On her Hot Mess podcast, Alix has been refreshingly candid about how she’s learned to take in social media criticism and why she feels she’s developed a “thick skin” over the years.
Facing the Online Critics
No doubt that the limelight attracts its fair share of trolls. From interviews to random clips that pop up online, Alix has had her share of hurtful comments.
“I do an interview or someone else posts a video of me or a clip of me and like reading for the first time, people being like, ‘she’s so mid or she’s so this or she’s so that’. I was like ‘oh my God. oh my God’. And then I’m realizing like I don’t need to be, like I never claimed.”
She went on to explain how social media forced her to build a tougher exterior, learning to ignore the negativity.
“That’s what gets in your head because I’m like, ‘wait was I supposed to be like Margot fu***ng Robbie. I’m literally this normal girl from New Jersey. I mean social media is like a whole another piece. It has taught me to definitely have thick skin that’s for sure.”Braxton Berrios: Her Rock
In addition to learning to brush off the trolls, Alix talked about how much she values Braxton’s supportive and protective nature.
“I’d say Braxton’s very very protective but he’s not jealous because he knows that he has me and he knows that I’m not going anywhere. I’m not turning my head for anyone. So like he might feel that sense of security with you. So he’s not jealous and that’s great.”Alix Earle’s conversation on social media trolling and her personal journey of building thick skin is quite inspiring. She has shown how, although it may be difficult to deal with online negativity, staying true to oneself and depending on a great partner like Braxton helps.
Her message to her fans? Be kind to yourself, embrace who you are, and don’t let the trolls get to you.
Also read – How Braxton Berrios’ Girlfriend Alix Earle’s Life Was Turned Upside Down by the LA Wildfires
In the world of the NFL, wives and girlfriends of players (WAGs) often find themselves the target of online trolling and criticism. Unfortunately, Alix Earle, the girlfriend of NFL player Braxton Berrios, is no exception to this trend. Despite facing harsh comments and negativity online, Earle has developed thick skin and learned how to handle the criticism with grace.The scrutiny began when Earle first started dating Berrios, a wide receiver for the Miami Dolphins. As their relationship became public, Earle found herself the subject of judgment and criticism from fans and online trolls. From her appearance to her personality, nothing seemed off-limits for those looking to tear her down.
Instead of letting the negativity get to her, Earle chose to rise above it and focus on her own happiness and well-being. She realized that the opinions of strangers on the internet were not a reflection of her worth or value as a person. With the support of Berrios and her loved ones, she was able to build up her self-confidence and develop a thick skin to deflect the hurtful comments.
Through it all, Earle has remained strong and resilient in the face of online trolling. She has learned to brush off the negativity and focus on the positive aspects of her life and relationship with Berrios. By choosing to prioritize her own mental health and well-being, she has been able to navigate the challenges of being an NFL WAG with grace and resilience.
In the world of professional sports, trolling and online criticism are unfortunately all too common. However, Alix Earle’s story serves as a reminder that it is possible to develop thick skin and rise above the negativity. By focusing on self-love and surrounding oneself with supportive people, anyone can weather the storm of online criticism and emerge stronger on the other side.
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NFL WAGs, Braxton Berrios girlfriend, Alix Earle, online criticism, trolling, thick skin, NFL news, NFL gossip, social media backlash, celebrity relationships, WAGs in the spotlight
#NFL #WAGs #Trolling #Hits #Hard #NFL #WAGs #Girlfriend #Braxton #Berrios #Alix #Earle #ExceptionHeres #Affected #Developed #Thick #Skin #Online #Criticism #NFL #NewsUFC champ Belal Muhammad unloads on Kamaru Usman after criticism: ‘You’re just a podcaster now’
. UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad was taken aback by Kamaru Usman’s recent comments.
While discussing the fallout from UFC 311 on his “Pound 4 Pound” podcast, former champ Usman (20-4 MMA, 15-3 UFC) was critical of Muhammad (24-3 MMA, 15-3 UFC) and Islam Makhachev for agreeing not to fight each other in what could be a big champion vs. champion fight.
Muhammad found the comments to be hypocritical because, when Usman was champion, he refused to go up to middleweight to face then-champ and good friend Israel Adesanya. Beyond that, Muhammad thinks Usman should focus on what’s going to happen next in his own career rather than trying to play matchmaker.
“It’s so funny when you have a guy like him. He’s on a three-fight losing streak, and when these guys are calling him out, he’s acting like – he’s putting himself on this pedestal like he’s still the champ, like they shouldn’t be calling him out,” Muhammad told MMA Junkie Radio. “But, bro, you’re just a podcaster now. You haven’t fought in over a year. If you’re not gonna defend your ranking, then leave. Quit.
“You’re on a three-fight losing streak and should start looking at retirement now, or you’re gonna get on that Tony Ferguson losing streak, and people are gonna forget that you were ever champion.”
Usman ‘never wanted to fight the toughest guys’
Nigeria’s Kamaru Usman falls during his Middleweight bout against Russia’s Khamzat Chimaev in the Ultimate Fighting Championship 294 (UFC) event at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on October 21, 2023. (Photo by Giuseppe CACACE / AFP) (Photo by GIUSEPPE CACACE/AFP via Getty Images) Having lost three straight, Usman, 37, is on the roughest stretch of his pro career. He lost his welterweight title to Leon Edwards at UFC 278, failed to win an immediate rematch, and then came up short in a short-notice replacement against Khamzat Chimaev in a middleweight bout.
When Usman was champ, he defended the title five times by facing Colby Covington and Jorge Masvidal twice each, and also defeated Gilbert Burns. In Muhammad’s eyes, it was a reign that saw Usman take an easy path.
“We do know that Kamaru never wanted to fight the toughest guys,” Muhammad said. “He never looked for the toughest test. He was that champion that would be like, ‘Oh, I beat Colby already. Let me get that rematch with Colby again. I think he deserves it. Oh, I beat Masividal. Let me fight Masvidal again.’ He made it seem like he fought the next toughest guys, but he never fought the guys on a streak.
“… I was on a streak, and he acted like he didn’t know who I was. So we’ve seen it. When he had his first tough title defense against Leon Edwards, he got knocked out and then he lost again to him. He was never a guy that chased the toughest test. So, it’s funny that he’s coming on now saying, ‘Oh, these guys, they act like they train together. No, they should be fighting each other.’ It’s like, ‘Bro, are you still a welterweight? Are you still trying to chase the title? Do you think you still have a chance? Why don’t you throw your name in the mix?’”
‘I just feel bad for him’
Despite the venom spit back at Usman, Muhammad recognizes that the former champ still has a valuable name. In fact, for “The Nigerian Nightmare” to get a shot at the title, Muhammad isn’t asking a lot: Just get back in the win column against solid competition.
“I just need Usman to get a win,” Muhammad said. “Like, he sucks so bad right now, like it’s just embarrassing where I just feel bad for him. Like he goes out there, you obviously have to fight somebody that’s on a streak. I think Buckley called him out. Buckley’s been killing it at 170. He just made Colby look like a rookie. I think he goes out there and figures out a way to beat him. I know they offered him JDM, but he turned it down because he’s a coward.
“So, I think for now, he’s just waiting waiting on the sidelines, trying to have that like Conor McGregor mentality of just whenever a welterweight fight happens, just tweeting out. Just so he gets attention or he gets in the headlines because people are forgetting about him. He has to fight somebody on a streak, and he has to beat them to even be considered to get a shot at this title.”
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This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: UFC champ Belal Muhammad unloads on Kamaru Usman after criticism: ‘You’re just a podcaster now’
Belal Muhammad, the current UFC champion, is not one to hold back when it comes to speaking his mind. Recently, he took aim at former champion Kamaru Usman after Usman criticized Muhammad’s fighting style.In a scathing post on social media, Muhammad called out Usman, saying, “You’re just a podcaster now. You had your chance in the Octagon and you lost. Don’t try to come for me when you can’t even back it up anymore.”
Muhammad’s comments come after Usman made remarks about Muhammad’s fighting style, questioning his ability to compete at the highest level. Muhammad, however, was quick to shut down Usman’s critiques and remind him that he is now retired and no longer an active fighter.
Fans of both fighters are eagerly awaiting a response from Usman, as this public feud between the two champions continues to heat up. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
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#UFC #champ #Belal #Muhammad #unloads #Kamaru #Usman #criticism #Youre #podcasterTexans RB Joe Mixon says NFL fined him $25K over ref criticism he didn’t make
Joe Mixon ran for 88 yards on 18 attempts and scored a touchdown during the Texans’ 23-14 divisional round defeat to the Chiefs. (Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images) Joe Mixon and his agent are claiming the NFL fined the Houston Texans running back $25,000 for comments he did not make following the AFC divisional round defeat to the Kansas City Chiefs on Saturday.
In a game where calls made against the Texans for penalties on Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes have been under scrutiny, Mixon gave his thoughts on the officiating afterward.
“Everybody knows how it is playing up here. You can never leave it into the refs’ hands,” Mixon said. “The whole world sees, man, what it is. It is what it is. When it comes down to it, you can never leave it into the refs’ hands. It’s all good, though.”
Agreeing with Mixon was former Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh, who posted on X, “Why play the game if every 50/50 call goes with Chiefs. These officials are [trash] & bias.”
Why play the game if every 50/50 call goes with Chiefs. These officials are & bias
— T.J. Houshmandzadeh (@housh84) January 18, 2025
According to ESPN’s DJ Bien-Aime, a Sports Illustrated story originally attributed Houshmandzadeh’s comment to Mixon, which was cited in the $25,000 fine.
Mixon posted on Wednesday about the apparent mistake by the NFL saying, “I’m getting fined by the @nfl for what someone else said. What’s next? I get fined by them for Connor McDavid cross-checking an opponent on a @nhl game!”
I’m getting fined by the @nfl for what someone else said. What’s next? I get fined by them for Connor McDavid cross checking an opponent on a @nhl game!
— Primetime!!! (@Joe_MainMixon) January 22, 2025
Mixon’s agent told ESPN that they will appeal the fine to “defend” Mixon and will “explore all other legal avenues to rectify this situation.”
After Mixon went public on Wednesday, Pro Football Talk reports that the NFL re-issued the $25,000 fine and cited the running back’s comment, “Everybody knows how it is playing up here. You can never leave it in the refs’ hands. The whole world see, man” after the Chiefs game.
That quote was not mentioned in Mixon’s initial fine letter.
So let me get this straight NFL fines me 25k for something I didn’t even say. Call them out for it, and they response was fine me AGAIN for something that’s not even a violation without even rescinding the first one. Where’s the accountability? Just respect the players.
Cold
— Primetime!!! (@Joe_MainMixon) January 22, 2025
Mixon was previously fined $11,255 following their wild-card round win over the Los Angeles Chargers for “unnecessary roughness.”
In a shocking turn of events, Texans running back Joe Mixon revealed that the NFL fined him $25,000 for criticizing referees – even though he never made any such comments. Mixon expressed his frustration with the league’s decision, stating that he never said anything disparaging about the officials during any games or interviews.Many fans and analysts are puzzled by the NFL’s actions, questioning the fairness and transparency of the fine. Mixon’s agent has vowed to appeal the ruling and clear his client’s name, as the running back is known for his professionalism and respect for the game.
The incident has sparked a debate about the NFL’s disciplinary process and the need for more accountability and consistency when it comes to fines and suspensions. As the situation unfolds, Mixon remains focused on his preparation for the upcoming season and is determined to prove his worth on the field.
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#Texans #Joe #Mixon #NFL #fined #25K #ref #criticism #didnt
Former Iowa Hawkeyes Star Making Massive Statement Amid Criticism
It has been a very rough season for Sacramento Kings forward Keegan Murray, but there may finally be a light at the end of the tunnel.
After struggling mightily for a long stretch, Murray appears to be bouncing back, as evidence by his Thursday night performance against the Houston Rockets in which he posted 18 points and 11 rebounds on 7-of-10 shooting in a 132-127 win.
The former Iowa Hawkeyes star has been very solid in the month of January thus far, averaging 14.5 points and seven rebounds per game while shooting 48.5 percent from the floor and 47.7 percent from three-point range.
That’s in stark contrast to the month of December, when Murray scored in single digits four times and logged just 10.3 points a night while making 41 percent of his shots and 30 percent of his triples.
Murray entered the 2024-25 NBA campaign with lofty expectations and was expected to take a major step forward this season, but instead, the opposite has happened.
The 24-year-old has actually regressed, struggling with his shot and displaying very limited offensive capabilities overall.
But it appears that Murray is breaking out of his slump and could be ascending as the All-Star break approaches.
Murray was previously laboring so much, as a matter of fact, that there was even speculation that the Kings could include him in trade discussions before the deadline.
However, for now, it appears that the Iowa product has righted the ship.
Hopefully, Murray can maintain—and improve upon—this impressive stretch of play for the remainder of the year.
Former Iowa Hawkeyes star, Luka Garza, is making a massive statement amid criticism as he continues to prove his worth on the basketball court. Despite facing doubts and skepticism from critics, Garza has been dominating the competition and showcasing his skills at the highest level.Garza, who was a standout player during his time at Iowa, has carried that success into his professional career and is quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with. His impressive performances and strong work ethic have silenced his critics and proven that he has what it takes to succeed in the NBA.
With his relentless drive and determination, Garza is proving that he is more than capable of thriving in the face of adversity. He is not letting the negativity affect his game and is focused on proving his doubters wrong with his exceptional play on the court.
As he continues to make a name for himself in the basketball world, Luka Garza is showing that he is a force to be reckoned with and is making a massive statement amid criticism. Fans and critics alike are taking notice of his talent and determination, and it’s clear that Garza is a player to watch in the future.
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