There was absolutely no trace of insolence or arrogance that has been the hallmark of Floyd Mayweather at his open workout in front of the media as his battle with Manny Pacquiao draws near.
Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images
We learned he’s not going to be attending any parties by Jay-Z, and seemed fully committed to an uncharacteristically subdued persona just weeks ahead of his date with fistic history on May 2. Mayweather appeared before an international press to answer questions about his Filipino rival, strategy, and overall assessment of all things “superfight”.
If his responses or body language could be characterized by food, he was as if an extremely overpriced hot dog without mustard or any chips on the side.
Continuing a theme that has been apparent since the March 11th extravaganza to announce the fight in Los Angeles, Mayweather dropped salt-less replies so boringly friendly that they could only be described as devoid of swagger. Wearing an all-american “TMT” hat and a Filipino emblazoned t-shirt bearing his likeness, “Money” also offered contradiction on the significance of his war with Pacquiao.
“It’s not just about money ? it’s about legacy, fans, family ? everything,” he said. But then, merely moments after, Mayweather offered a completely different refrain, while dialing up a markedly different tone as he stated, “One fight does not define Floyd Mayweather’s career.”
If that’s true, then what do we make of his March 11 statement on the podium with Pacquiao when he dead-panned, “I’ve never wanted to win a fight so bad in my life.”?
As for the workout itself, it appeared business as usual, as a very workman-like Mayweather went through his familiar mitts routine with his uncle and long-time trainer Roger, and did bodywork with camp crony Nate Jones. There was of course no sparring and nothing of any particular intrigue, unless you count a statement from Roger, who has also been uncharacteristically tight in the tongue.
“Floyd hasn’t said much about anything,” said uncle Roger Mayweather. “But he has said this: ‘I am going to stop him.’ ”
Upon reviewing footage of Mayweather’s workout courtesy of Real Combat Media, Floyd endured a very demanding routine which lasted well over 2 hours and appeared prime for the task of engagement with his daredevil opponent.
Given his patient dedication to specific shot placement with an emphasis on timing, Mayweather’s gameplan appears to revolve around his patented composure and making the most out of opportunities given to him by Pacquiao. Prior to his grinding routine, Mayweather mentioned Pacquiao as “a very reckless fighter”, while showing us throughout his workout a more flat-footed approach. An approach that could be indicative of an explosive fight.
Manny Pacquiao’s open workout is set for 6 p.m. ET Wednesday and can be seen on ESPN3.
