Floyd Mayweather Guarantees Fight With Victor Ortiz Won’t Go 12 Rounds. Do You Believe Him?
Although Floyd Mayweather is widely regarded as the pound-for-pound best boxer on the planet, one of the criticisms often following him throughout his illustrious career is his inability to score highlight-reel knockouts. The man with the nickname “Money” hears everyone talking, especially considering the man people say is the other pound-for-pound king just happens to constantly knock his opponent’s into next week.
During a recent conference call to discuss his upcoming fight with Victor Ortiz on September 17, Mayweather was questioned about his strategy heading into the fight and he made the bold prediction that the fight wouldn’t go the distance. He wouldn’t go as far as saying he’d knock out Ortiz but, knowing Mayweather, he likely means a TKO or making Ortiz quit.
With such a bold statement out there, do you believe him? Before you answer that, consider a few things.
Mayweather has long been consider a purveyor of the sweet science who relies on a defense-first mentality that allows him to take away his opponent’s best weapon. For him to be on the offensive either means he’s going to be out of character or knows something about Ortiz that the average fight fan doesn’t.
Mayweather knocks out opponents who come to fight. Take a look at Mayweather’s recent wins. Some may say Mayweather fought a boring fight but the reality is if you force “Money” to fight, he’ll fight you back. Take a look at Ricky Hatton, Diego Corrales and Arturo Gatti. Those three brought the fight to Floyd’s front door and were all stopped within 12 rounds. Once Shane Mosley realized he had no chance of winning, he went into a shell and took less chances. Victor Ortiz is a fighter first and a boxer a distant second. Knowing that his only chance to win is by coming forward, expect Mayweather to focus on how he can embarrass Ortiz with his brilliant hand speed while scoring an impressive knockout.
While it’s true Mayweather is far from a knockout artist, those who are familiar with the undefeated fighter’s history realize he’s no dummy when it comes to the sport. If he says its going to happen, it actually may; just as long as Ortiz comes to fight.
