In a highly anticipated rematch, legendary boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. defeated John Gotti III with ease in Mexico City on August 24. The fight was marred by controversy, including a change of referees during the bout.
The first match between Mayweather and Gotti III, which took place in June 2023, ended abruptly in the sixth round due to a brawl in the ring. The rematch nearly followed a similar fate when the referee Hector Afu from Panama stepped down after the second round, and Mexican referee Alfredo Uruzquieta took over.
Afu’s departure was reportedly due to dissatisfaction with Mayweather’s protest over a call that deemed one of his left hooks illegal. At 47 years old, Mayweather showcased his superior skill, and Gotti’s reluctance to engage led to loud boos from the crowd of approximately 22,000 spectators.
Gotti attempted to increase his aggression in the fourth round, but his efforts were ineffective against the well-seasoned Mayweather, who won by a clear margin. Mayweather, an Olympic bronze medalist in 1996, continues to solidify his legendary status with this victory.
