In a recent interview, Manny Pacquiao made bold remarks about Floyd Mayweather’s upcoming exhibition bout against John Gotti III. The legendary Filipino boxer didn’t hold back, asserting that Mayweather is “sure to win” but not without resorting to tactics that Pacquiao believes are less than honorable. This isn’t the first time Pacquiao has pointed out what he sees as Mayweather’s dirty tricks, and his comments have certainly stirred up interest in the fight.
“Mayweather will triumph without a doubt,” Pacquiao said confidently. However, his confidence in Mayweather’s victory isn’t just due to the former champion’s skill. Pacquiao suggested that Mayweather might rely on the same questionable strategies he used in their own bout back in 2015. “He might use the same ‘dirty’ strategies he once used to defeat me to overpower John Gotti III,” Pacquiao warned.
Pacquiao’s use of the term ‘dirty’ isn’t without reason. Many remember the highly anticipated 2015 fight between Pacquiao and Mayweather, dubbed the “Fight of the Century,” where Mayweather’s defensive style and strategic clinching led to a unanimous decision victory. To some, these tactics were smart boxing, but to others, including Pacquiao, they were seen as bending the rules of the sport.
It’s important to understand why Pacquiao’s words carry weight. He’s not just another voice in the boxing world; he’s a legend who fought and defeated some of the best in the sport. His criticism of Mayweather isn’t just based on sour grapes but rather on his perspective as someone who has faced Mayweather’s tactics firsthand. “He didn’t beat me because he was better. He beat me because he knew how to play the game,” Pacquiao once said, reflecting on their fight.
As for John Gotti III, he’s the grandson of the infamous mob boss John Gotti, and while his family name brings a lot of attention, it’s his skills in the ring that have earned him this match against Mayweather. Gotti III has a respectable MMA record and has transitioned into boxing with some success, but taking on Mayweather, even in an exhibition match, is a different challenge altogether.
Pacquiao’s comments add an intriguing layer to this bout. While many expect Mayweather to win, Pacquiao’s prediction suggests that it won’t just be about skill but also about strategy—perhaps even dirty strategy. For Gotti III, these comments could serve as a warning or a motivator. He’ll need to be prepared not just for Mayweather’s speed and precision but also for any tactics that might catch him off guard.
As the fight approaches, all eyes will be on Mayweather to see if he lives up to Pacquiao’s expectations—whether by showcasing his technical prowess or by using the same controversial tactics that have led to his undefeated record. And as always, Pacquiao’s words will echo in the minds of fans and analysts alike, reminding everyone that in boxing, it’s not just about who’s stronger or faster, but who knows how to win, by any means necessary.
