In an unprecedented turn of events, boxing legend Floyd Mayweather Jr. stunned fans by having the referee switched out mid-bout during his exhibition match against John Gotti III in Mexico City.
Floyd Mayweather Jr. etched his name in boxing history once again, not for his exceptional skills or undefeated record, but for an unprecedented moment that unfolded during his exhibition match against John Gotti III in Mexico City. In a move that left fans and experts baffled, Mayweather had the referee switched out mid-fight.
Mayweather Makes History, Fires Referee Mid-Fight
The bizarre episode transpired in the second round of the bout. As the action intensified, referee Hector Afu intervened to admonish Mayweather for an alleged blow to the back of Gotti's head. However, Mayweather, known for his outspoken nature, took umbrage at the call.
"Get out of my way," he reportedly told Afu, his voice laced with frustration.
Mayweather Makes History, Fires Referee Mid-Fight
The exchange escalated, with Afu standing his ground until Mayweather delivered the unexpected ultimatum: "I'm firing you."
And so, in an unprecedented twist, Afu found himself replaced by Alfredo Uruzquieta in the following round. Boxing fans watching the spectacle on various platforms couldn't help but marvel at the audacity of Mayweather's actions, with many jokingly remarking that he had "fired" the referee mid-bout.
Mayweather Makes History, Fires Referee Mid-Fight
The saga between Mayweather and Gotti had its genesis in a chaotic rematch from June 2023. That encounter descended into a melee, marred by excessive trash-talking and a contentious post-fight brawl. Referee Kenny Bayless faced an insurmountable challenge in maintaining order, and the situation spiraled out of control.
Saturday night's rematch, thankfully, proved far less dramatic. Mayweather, who boasts an unblemished 50-0 professional record, hasn't fought professionally since his victory against Conor McGregor in 2017. Gotti, the grandson of notorious mobster John Gotti, displayed admirable resilience but ultimately fell short against the legendary Mayweather.
While Mayweather's decision to have the referee switched out could be interpreted as an act of defiance, it also highlighted a broader issue within the sport of boxing. The authority of referees has come under increasing scrutiny, with some critics arguing that they lack the necessary training and experience to effectively adjudicate matches.
Mayweather's unprecedented action has sparked a debate among boxing enthusiasts. Some argue that it undermines the authority of referees and sets a dangerous precedent. Others, however, contend that it empowered Mayweather to protect himself from what he perceived as an unfair call.
Regardless of one's stance on Mayweather's decision, it has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on boxing history. It remains to be seen whether other fighters will follow in his footsteps and challenge the traditional role of referees in the sport.
