Who is the greatest boxer of all time? In terms of aura, nobody can argue against Muhammad Ali. When it comes to pure, devastating talent, Mike Tyson usually leads the conversation. But when you look at the numbers, both in terms of performance and marketability, there is hardly anyone who can match up to Floyd Mayweather. Active between 1996 and 2017, Mayweather, 47, retired undefeated, with 15 major world championships to his name. In 2016, ESPN ranked him as the greatest pound for pound boxer of the last 25 years.
Having secured his legacy in boxing, Mayweather is now on a mission to spread the message of health and fitness around the world. With that aim in mind, Mayweather made his first-ever trip to India by paying a quick visit to Mumbai in the middle of March, accompanied by The Money Team (Mayweather’s lifestyle brand) and business partner, Jas Mathur, CEO of Limitless X.
My Kolkata caught up with Mayweather to learn more about his time in Mumbai, his biggest lessons, his toughest rival, and more. Edited excerpts from the conversation follow.
‘I love how much I connect with Indian culture and the people here’
Despite retiring from professional boxing in 2017, Mayweather’s popularity has not dimmed in recent years Getty Images
My Kolkata: What have been the highlights of your Mumbai visit so far?
Floyd Mayweather: Today (March 18) was a great day. I went to the temple and it was a great experience. I also explored the Gateway of India and am looking forward to visiting more places in Mumbai and meeting new people. This is, of course, only a short trip to India. I look forward to experiencing many more places in the country when I revisit soon. India is a country with a huge population and fan base for me. I love how much I connect with Indian culture and the people here. I also want to spread awareness about health in India, since it’s common to everyone. That’s where Limitless X and my collaboration with Jas Mathur comes in (more details on that are expected soon!).
Do you think you will have an exhibition match in India at some point? If yes, who would you love to fight in India?
Yes, definitely. I’m keen to fight in India and am exploring the right opportunities. I might have an exhibition match here in the very near future. My match doesn’t have to be with a boxer, it could be with anyone, maybe even an actor. My match could be with anyone who fits the criteria and is capable of a high-level performance.
‘My match with Manny Pacquiao was one for the books!’
Mayweather beat Pacquiao by unanimous decision after 12 rounds during their much-anticipated fight in 2015 Floyd Mayweather
You have had several iconic rivals over the years, but who would you pick as the greatest boxer you have ever faced?
I can’t pick any one iconic rival. Everyone I have ever had a match with has been really talented, taught me something and has been worthy of the game. Historically, my fight with Manny Pacquiao (in May 2015) has been the most watched boxing match ever and it has been the number one event in the world on pay-per-view. So, that was one for the books!
What has been the biggest learning you have had in your boxing career?
The biggest learning has been how to stay calm and focused while maintaining balance in life. I have also learned how to develop self confidence through every fight while knowing that no matter what, boxing is my legacy.
‘I had to compete with my own benchmark… [but] I never assumed that I’m the best’
Mayweather fought 50 times in his professional career, winning all 50, including 27 by knockout Floyd Mayweather
According to Forbes, you were the highest paid athlete in the world in 2018. Was there ever a point where money stopped mattering for you? What, then, made you keep going?
After a point in time, it’s not about the money, but it’s about the love of the game. I love the game, and when I was the highest paid athlete, I set a new benchmark. I realised I had to compete with my own benchmark… It was about having a passion and giving back to the audience and giving them a good performance because that’s what the audience wanted from me.
You are widely regarded as the best defensive boxer in history. What was the secret behind your incredible defensive skills?
The secret was working hard and practising everyday. It was about being disciplined and giving everything I had to the sport. I never thought I understood everything and always wanted to learn more. I always wanted to be a master of the sport, but I wanted to do that through constant learning. I never assumed that I’m the best.
In one of your past interviews you said: “I basically raised myself.” How did that shape your career and life?
It’s made me more disciplined. I realised that I didn’t have anything and I have to value what I have because I worked hard to achieve it.
‘I’m not just an investor, I’m also actively involved in business’
Mayweather has found the key to convert his fame into business potential Floyd Mayweather
If not boxing, what would your alternative profession have been?
Who knows? Any profession that came my way honestly. Even today, I’m not just a boxer. I’m an entrepreneur and I like investing in businesses. I’m not just an investor, I’m also actively involved in business. Boxing is something that’s come my way and I’ve always been associated with it. However, there are many other fields I’m associated with as well.
Lastly, what are some hobbies you explore in your free time?
Playing dominos, basketball and doing anything that simulates the mind. I’m into mental challenges and enjoy playing any and every kind of sport.
