In an upcoming exhibition bout taking place tomorrow night in Miami, legendary boxing sensation Floyd Mayweather is set to face off against MMA pro John Gotti III, grandson of the infamous gangster John Gotti. Despite Mayweather’s age, his training sessions reveal no signs of slowing down.
During the weigh-in, Gotti III tipped the scales at a considerable 181 pounds, a whopping 25 pounds heavier than Mayweather’s career-high weight of 156 pounds. Interestingly, Mayweather opted not to participate in the weigh-in, a decision announced shortly after his opponent’s weigh-in at the Fontainebleau hotel in Miami Beach, amidst scorching temperatures.
While Mayweather refrained from stepping on the scales, he showcased his sharp wit on the microphone, reminiscing about his days as part of the Olympic team alongside host Antonio Tarver. He also highlighted his philanthropic efforts throughout the week, noting his support for over 400 local children. However, a joke about facing Arturo Gatti seemed to bother the stoic New Yorker, causing a slight shift in the atmosphere.
Responding to Mayweather’s comment, Gotti III confidently stated, “There’s only one Gotti. You never fought no Gotti.” The crowd echoed their support for the New Yorker, which further fueled Mayweather’s determination. The former champion made it clear that the fight would not go the distance, emphasizing the two fighters’ roles in determining the outcome, regardless of the crowd’s energy.
“When we step into the ring, it’s up to us,” Mayweather asserted. “It’s not about the crowd; they can scream, holler, and shout. This is what I do. I don’t need to boast or pose or explain my capabilities.”
He continued, “The world knows what I can do. It’s up to him to show the world what he’s capable of. Actions speak louder than words. I don’t need to come out here and talk about my record. Twenty years as a world champion speaks for itself. You don’t achieve that kind of success without the ability to fight.”
Mayweather further emphasized the importance of being able to take punches as well as deliver them. While acknowledging his own ability to endure, he made it clear that his focus has always been on giving more than taking. As the exhibition bout approaches, Mayweather challenged those who doubt him to maintain their enthusiasm until the final bell, inviting them to attend the press conference after the event.