“The biggest fight that’s going to be in boxing is Terence Crawford and Errol Spence,” Mayweather confidently proclaimed. “I’ve been in with Errol… he gave me good work,” admitted Mayweather.
At first glance, this may seem like a standard statement, but consider Mayweather’s credentials. He has been in the ring with countless world-class fighters, and for him to acknowledge Spence in this manner speaks volumes about the young boxer’s ability.
Despite his status as a seasoned boxing vet, Mayweather seems well aware that he isn’t the young gun anymore.
“These guys, they’re well in their 30s… and they’re still on me,” he laughed, showing a sense of humility not often associated with the champ.
Notwithstanding his age, Mayweather remains a tough contender. His encounters with the likes of Spence, among others, have kept him on his toes.
“If I sit right here and not give that young kid props, it’d be bad,” Mayweather admitted. “Errol Spence gave me solid work. He’s a very, very tough competitor.”
His praise for Spence doesn’t end there. He commends the young boxer’s tenacity, recalling how he was pushed to his limits in the boxing gym, a sentiment he also extends to another up-and-coming fighter, J Leon Love.
“Guys like that… put me on my toes and make me tighten my game up. That’s what I like – young guys in the sport that make me do that.”
The Making of a Pound for Pound Champ
Throughout the interview, Mayweather acknowledges the critical elements of becoming a pound for pound champ, a title he held for years. The fighter’s record, ring performance, skills, and the caliber of opponents they’ve faced all matter.
“To be honest, when I was 14 or 15 years old, I could have turned professional,” Mayweather candidly admitted, highlighting the importance of timing and patience in a fighter’s journey.
And it seems he is willing to impart his wisdom on the next generation of fighters, even those not under his own company.
“Terence Crawford… I just truly believe he’s a hell of a fighter. If he’s ever free and wants to go to another company, I’d love to work with him.”
“He reminds me of a young Floyd Mayweather. He can fight his ass off, and that’s what I like about him.”
