Michael Vick Will Become More Popular after Dog Fighting Scandal, Says Professor

Syracuse, NY (PRWEB) July 24, 2007 -- Prominent Syracuse University Professor Dr. Boyce Watkins argues that Atlanta Falcons star Michael Vick will be more popular than ever after the dog fighting scandal is over. Dr. Watkins, a regular commentator on African Americans in sport on ESPN, CBS and CNN, says that the source of Vick's increased popularity will likely be the fact that many of his fans already support a barbaric sport.

"In a sport like football, the more of a 'man's man' you are, the more some people love you," says Watkins, author of "What if George Bush were a Black Man?" "People are going to love Vick for the same reasons they loved Tyson in spite of the rape conviction and loved Babe Ruth after all the drinking and womanizing. There is an almost shocking masculinity affect involved."

Dr. Watkins doesn't condone dog fighting and considers the sport to be tragic in nature. He also makes reference to the Philadelphia Eagles fans who cheered when it appeared that Michael Irvin may have broken his neck during a game. In a column written for the popular black news site YourBlackWorld.com, Watkins tells Vick he should "Handle his business", and find ways to rid himself of friends that will cause him trouble.

"You can't wear a white suit and swim in mud puddles," says Dr. Watkins, who is the host of "Boiling Hot with Boyce Watkins" a nationally-syndicated radio show. "It's not enough as a black man to watch what you do. It's about what your friends are doing around you."

Dr. Watkins advises all Americans to use restraint in judging Vick. He argues that the courts should be allowed to decide if he is guilty, and that any action on the part of the NFL to sideline Vick would be premature. He also argues that PETA members, who have been highly critical of Vick, should wait to hear the evidence before attacking him.

Dr. Boyce Watkins is a Finance Professor at Syracuse University and author of "What if George Bush were a Black Man?" He makes regular commentary in the national media, including CNN, BET, FOX and CBS. For more information, please visit www.boycewatkins.com. For interviews, please call (502) 640-8155.

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