Las Vegas, Aug 28 (IANS) Professional boxing star Floyd Mayweather insists that he has “no second thoughts” about his retirement. He will hang up his gloves following his upcoming clash with Andre Berto.
The 38-year-old American will move to 49-0 if he beats his compatriot Berto in Las Vegas on September 12. But despite widespread speculation that he will fight again in an attempt to better Rocky Marciano’s record (49-0), Mayweather said he is looking forward to retirement.
“Nobody knows what the future holds, but right now, I’m cool and comfortable and having no second thoughts at all about retirement,” Mayweather was quoted as saying by skysports.com on Thursday.
“I had a good career, I won every world title, but boxing is wear and tear on the body. It’s time to hang ’em up. I’m looking forward to working with some up-and-coming kids, going on walks, and taking vacations.”
Mayweather, who defeated Manny Pacquiao in the ‘fight of the century’ in May said, “Boxing has always been work to me, a job. If I could say anything to a youngster taking up boxing it would be to be smart and not take a lot of punches”.
“All 48 of my fights have been hard. None have been easy. All played a major key. It’s the ‘Mayweather Era’. I feel that every fighter is an artist and they all take pictures their own way. I’m just one of the very best artists,” the undefeated champion said.
The boxer again deflected criticism of his choice of opponent for his swan song and predicted another tough night.
“Berto can fight. He’s a two-time champion. He’s hungry. He comes to wage a war. I expect a hell of a fight out of him,” he said.
Mayweather Promotions CEO Leonard Ellerbe also reiterated the intention to call time and highlighted the commitment shown by the boxer over nearly 19 years in the sport.
“This will be Floyd’s last fight. I’m very excited for him. He’s done it his way. He’s had an illustrious career and I know he’s very comfortable with what he’s been able to accomplish,” Ellerbe said.
