Heavyweight boxing legend, Mike Tyson, has had his say on the legacy of Floyd Mayweather Jr, who often labels himself as ‘The Best Ever’ and points to his undefeated campaign as proof.
Mayweather has indeed cemented himself as one of the best fighters to step into the ring in the eyes of many fans, and stands out as a pound-for-pound great since the turn of the millennium.
As a five-weight world champion and a member of an exclusive club of former world champions who retired with an undefeated record, it’s hard to argue against the credentials of the 45-year-old – who is statistically the most accurate puncher since the creation of CompuBox.
‘Money’ Mayweather is regularly referred to as one of the best defensive boxers in history – however his defensive tactics, only outside of the ring have often resulted in criticism from boxing fans.
Mayweather always prioritised longevity and health, leading to some claims that he ‘cherry-picked’ opponents and used negotiation tactics, such as larger rings, to better support his style and therefore increase his chances of winning.
Since retirement, we have seen further proof of Mayweather’s business intelligence that separates him from the pack of boxing icons, as he continues to make huge sums of money from one-sided exhibition fights.
In an interview with ESNEWS, ‘Iron Mike’ told his opinion of Mayweather’s status amongst the all-time greats and incomparable career to the likes of boxing legends such as Julio Cesar Chavez.
“There are some people right, I don’t care how good they are, they are never going to be great. Even though they make money, they win titles, they aren’t going to be [Julio Cesar] Chavez.”
“I don’t care how much money he has got.”
“I don’t want to hear Floyd [Mayweather Jr.] talking shit about 50-0 and all that.”
Tyson has given the same view in the past, addressing Mayweather’s legacy on his HotBoxin’ podcast in 2019.
“Don’t tell me about, ‘You’re the greatest fighter,’ with 50-0.”
“You’re great, no doubt about it, but 50-0? Chavez had 90. He was fighting like, what? Eight times a year? Against whoever was in the rankings. He wasn’t picking, it was, ‘Whoever you want, come on.’”
Despite the harsh words, not many fans will argue against both mens’ legacy in the sport of boxing.
