John Gotti says he no longer considers Floyd Mayweather Jr. his enemy after a chaotic exhibition boxing match between the two ended in a brawl, but Gotti still wants an opportunity to fight Mayweather again.
John Gotti has lately changed his stance regarding Floyd Mayweather Jr., claiming that he doesn’t consider him an enemy anymore. Yet, despite their reconciled enmity, Gotti expressed a desire to punch Mayweather in the face. This sentiment follows a chaotic exhibition boxing match earlier this month, where the match was abruptly halted due to unsportsmanlike conduct. The abrupt end to the match resulted in a brawl as both Gotti and Mayweather’s entourages stormed the ring. Following the incident, Gotti initially labelled Mayweather his “enemy for life” but later softened his remarks after having some time to reflect.
When asked about the incident, Gotti revealed to Ariel Helwani on The MMA Hour, “He wanted to talk, and I wanted no part of it. I didn’t want to talk to him. My father, however, went to his locker room, and they talked and hashed it out.” He admitted to uttering harsh words out of anger and affirmed there was no animosity between him and Mayweather anymore. Gotti maintained his respect for Mayweather, applauding the boxer’s exceptional skill and speed even at the age of 46.
As dynamics further cooled down between the two parties, Gotti divulged that they’ve been on speaking terms. Relaying that his dad has been in contact with Mayweather’s team and insisting that there’s no bad blood between them, he emphasized, “It’s business. We did what we had to do, and we squash it and move on.” That said, a replay of the chaotic match seems to be in the works. In light of the brawl catapulting the otherwise unsung Mayweather exhibition event into the headlines, Gotti revealed ongoing negotiations for another match.
Assured of a rematch in the near future, Gotti radiated confidence. Despite facing a six-month suspension for the incident, Gotti was optimistic that his team will manage to get the suspension lifted. He shared a desire for a rematch as early as October. However, it seems like the friendly banter hasn’t entirely dissipated, and Gotti still harbors some resentment. He openly expressed the personal nature of the potential rematch and demonstrated a changed attitude. Gotti clarified, “When you cross certain lines with the talking, now it becomes personal for me. Floyd didn’t have to go there. Neither did I. … Now, it’s war between me and Floyd.” He highlighted the intensity of his feelings as he prepared for a rematch with Mayweather, indicating that this time the fight was far more personal.