Floyd Mayweather’s figure has always been surrounded by controversy, but a new criticism has come from an unexpected place. WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson has spoken out to point out that Mayweather’s focus on keeping his unbeaten 50-0 record has damaged the essence of modern boxing, creating a generation of fighters who prefer safety over challenge.
Stevenson against Mayweather’s mentality
During an interview on ‘The Arena’, Stevenson did not mince his words. Although many compare him to Mayweather for his defensive style and talent, the young boxer was harshly critical of the current elite’s mentality. “I feel like the guys in this generation are scared to risk it all,” he said.
“Everyone wants to be undefeated. People are afraid to take risks. They’d rather go and fight a fight with more notoriety than fight a guy who’s the best. So Floyd definitely changed that when he stayed undefeated, talked the way he did and did everything he did. He changed the sport of boxing,” added Stevenson.
The boxing world against Mayweather
Stevenson’s words are not an isolated case. Legendary commentator Jim Gray has shared a similar sentiment, stating that Mayweather’s focus on “the zero” ruined the sport, making the record more important than the legacy.
What is surprising is that Stevenson, who was even mentored by Mayweather himself, joined this narrative, proving that criticism transcends personal admiration.
In the end, Mayweather’s influence on boxing is as complex as his own personality. And while his 50-0 record is perfect, the debate over its cost to the sport is more alive than ever.
Read the full article here
