“Out with the old, in with the new” is one of the oldest adages for a reason.
Everyone loves the shiny new toy, the bright new face, the intrigue that comes with discovering something or someone previously unknown. As much is true in the fight game. People love to move on to what or who is next up. Even when a champion is established, the discussion tends to move toward where that fighter is situated in the all-time rankings rather than an appreciation for what they have done and are doing. And when it comes to the changing of a guard, other than a handful of established fan-favorites, fans tend to seem eager to usher in a new class of contenders, whether or not the experienced elite is ready to take their bows.