When I was fighting, I would look to excite the crowds with a bolo punch or something taunting. Looking back, they were legal - but not sportsmanlike. I don't recommend another boxer try them. But we looked more to make the robot fights dramatic first and realistic second.

In this quote, Sugar Ray Leonard, a legendary American boxer, reflects on his approach to the sport of boxing during his career. He acknowledges that some of his actions, such as using a bolo punch or engaging in taunting tactics, were legal under the rules of boxing, but he admits they were not necessarily sportsmanlike. Leonard points out that while these moves were technically allowed, they were intended to excite the audience and add drama to the fight, rather than adhering strictly to the ideals of fair play or technical realism.

The origin of this statement lies in Leonard's reflection on the spectacle aspect of boxing. As one of the most popular and charismatic fighters in the history of the sport, Leonard often relied on his ability to entertain as much as his athleticism. He notes that the primary goal was to create a dramatic experience for the crowd, which often took precedence over the pure technicality of the sport. This approach helped to elevate his fights beyond mere competition and into entertainment, aligning with the spectacle-driven side of professional sports.

By stating that the robot fights were designed to be dramatic first and realistic second, Leonard acknowledges the role of showmanship in his career. While he respected the technical side of boxing, he also understood the importance of theatricality in captivating the audience and maintaining excitement. This insight reflects his awareness of the entertainment value of boxing, especially in a time when the sport’s popularity relied heavily on engaging the crowd.

Ultimately, Leonard's quote serves as a reflection on the balance between sportsmanship and entertainment in boxing. While he admits that some of his actions may not have been ideal in terms of sportsmanship, he clarifies that his primary objective was to create a compelling experience for the audience. His statement is a recognition of the tension between the competitive and dramatic elements of professional sports.