We canonise people who choose to sacrifice themselves for the slimmest chance at victory, even more so when there's no chance. It's a romantic notion and it's not going to change. The mindset required to accept it would not allow for a sport that involves two combatants trying to hurt one another. That said, I dont think it's as prevalent on the surface as it was a few decades ago but it'll always be there because this is more than a sport. It's fu*ked up.
Perhaps corners should be ready with the towel take responsibility and criticism away from the fighter.