Kiwi sports fans fell in love with Joseph Parker because of his humble attitude during his ascent of the world heavyweight boxing rankings.
That culminated with him winning the WBO heavyweight belt in front of thousands of fired up home fans on a stunning Auckland night in late 2016 – in the process becoming the first New Zealand or Pasifika fighter to win a major heavyweight championship.
And now as Parker – and his promotional team Duco Events – look at ways to resurrect his international reputation after his second successive loss last Sunday, it would be wise for them to remember just how easy it is to lose support.
The fact Parker lost last Sunday at London's 02 Arena against British heavyweight Dillian Whyte wasn't overly surprising. Whyte won by a unanimous points decision – in the process becoming the first boxer to knock Parker to the canvas during his pro career.
But what truly is surprising, is the consideration Parker and his camp are giving to appealing the decision.