I by no means want to take away from Sam. Everything that I’ve seen of him seems like he’s a good, respectful and likable kid. I saw his line up and he did deserve to win no doubt. But I think in part you’re right. The days of paying your dues by winning local, state, regional and National shows are over. The prestige of winning a pro card isn’t the same as was. It’s all about the revenue streams
Social Media helped him win no doubt.
If nobody ever heard of him,it may well have been a different outcome.
EDIT: Upon seeing the other competitors,no one came close to beating him.