The recent boxing match between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, drew millions of viewers and generated global buzz.
While the fight itself faced mixed reviews, an unexpected personality emerged from the sidelines, captivating audiences worldwide.
The event, streamed live on Netflix, became a cultural moment, with over 60 million households tuning in. Ticket sales for the event crossed a staggering $17.8 million.
However, the main event received criticism for its lack of energy, with Jake Paul securing a unanimous decision victory. Fans and experts noted that Tyson landed only 18 punches compared to Paul’s 78, leaving many underwhelmed.
Despite the lackluster performance of the main bout, one individual managed to steal the spotlight. Social media was abuzz with excitement, with viewers showering praise on an unexpected star.
Sydney Thomas, a 20-year-old student at the University of Alabama, became the highlight of the night. Her appearance as one of the ring girls left fans talking about her more than the fight itself.
Many viewers took to social media, declaring her the “real winner” of the evening. For some, her captivating presence was the sole reason they stayed engaged with the broadcast.
Thomas’s story is both inspiring and surprising. Originally discovered through social media, she began her career as a ring girl in Puerto Rico, quickly making waves in the modeling world.
Balancing her academic pursuits in management with a focus on entrepreneurship, she has shown remarkable poise and professionalism. Her participation in the Tyson-Paul fight elevated her profile to unprecedented levels.
Since the event, Thomas has gained over 500,000 followers across various social media platforms. Sharing her astonishment on Snapchat, she expressed gratitude for being part of such a monumental occasion.
The event’s ring girls, collectively known as the “VIP Event Models,” also attracted significant attention. Among them, Virginia Sanhouse, with over 2 million Instagram followers, has gained her own share of the spotlight.
A behind-the-scenes video featuring the models preparing for the event, including applying oils by the ringside, went viral. Fans online praised the models’ glamour, calling them one of the event’s best aspects.
Sydney Thomas took to TikTok, where she now boasts nearly 800,000 followers, to reflect on her newfound fame. She expressed her gratitude, stating, “The love and support I’ve received is beyond words.”
On Instagram, where her follower count exceeds 400,000, Thomas continues to share her excitement for future opportunities. Her rise to fame has been swift, fueled by her captivating presence at the high-profile event.
The Tyson-Paul fight was not without its challenges. At 58, Mike Tyson returned to the ring after a 19-year hiatus, a feat many considered bold given his recent health struggles.
Tyson faced a severe ulcer attack in June, requiring eight blood transfusions to recover. Despite the odds, he expressed pride in completing the fight and sharing the moment with his children.
As the event concluded, the spotlight shifted from the boxing legends to an unexpected figure. Fans were eager to learn the identity of the ring girl who had taken social media by storm.
It was revealed that the viral sensation was none other than Sydney Thomas. Her presence at the Tyson-Paul fight has propelled her into the limelight, cementing her status as an internet star.
Featured Image Credit: (Instagram/ @iamsydneythomas)
