Looking for fighters that HBO announcers were very excited for prior to a setback AND who HBO seemingly discarded as a result. I’ll go first. Derrick Jefferson Lehlo Ledwaba
Was he pushed aggressively by HBO? I was younger and only casually into boxing then so I don't remember. He was a solid HW contender in that largely barren landscape though. Only losing to Klitschko and Chambers in a close fight. Had other skills outside of boxing and decided that the sport wasn't for him after those 2 losses I take it. Edit. Just looked up and completely forgot that he retired due to eye injuries sustained in the Chambers fight more than anything else.