Boxing legend Floyd Mayweather Jr. has faced his fair share of controversies throughout his career. The former five-division world champion has come under fire for many things, including cherry-picking his opponents or fighting in exhibitions. Mayweather is now set to fight in an exhibition bout with the grandson of former crime syndicate leader John Gotti. While he has received criticism for his recent endeavors, there is one particular incident that left a mark on his legacy like no other.

This was his infamous ‘sucker punch’ on Victor Ortiz back in 2o11. The incident occurred during their WBC Welterweight world title fight at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Moreover, the outcome of this bout left boxing enthusiasts divided on whether Mayweather’s actions were morally justifiable within the sport. For years, fans have debated whether the puch was a legal one and it looks like the debate is still on. With many terming it a ‘sucker punch’, was Floyd’s KO punch legal?

The ‘sucker punch’ that earned Floyd the win: Fans debate its legality

Mayweather vs Ortiz took a controversial turn in the fourth round when Ortiz seemingly attempted to headbutt Mayweather. Following a warning, Ortiz made a gesture to touch gloves as a sign of sportsmanship. However, Mayweather saw an opportunity and swiftly struck Ortiz with a left hook followed by a powerful right hand, dropping ‘Vicious’ Ortiz onto the canvas.

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While the knockout itself was within the rules and regulations of boxing, it triggered a significant backlash from fans and Ortiz himself who questioned Mayweather’s ethics. The topic has been debated for years, and with a resurfaced video of this fight making rounds online, the debate has once again reignited.

In response to accusations, Mayweather later cleared the air, calling it a fair play on his part, saying, “I was once told, ‘protect yourself at all times’.” Mayweather also pointed out the illegal headbutt saying, he “wanted to do me dirty.”  

A user named Winston Thomas stated that Ortiz was wrong in this case and got his punishment. “Victor was wrong. He got exactly what he deserved,” he wrote. Another user pointed out how Mayweather did not touch gloves. “It’s a bit odd why he kept trying to hug Floyd. Just touch gloves to apologize and carry on. Floyd acknowledged the first hug but he kept coming in for more lol,” he wrote.

Moreover, a user named Billy Smith claimed that there was no ‘sucker punch’. According to him, Ortiz ate the shot and looked at the referee to stop Mayweather despite previously headbutting him. “No sucker punch Victor ate the first shot on purpose and then looked at the ref for help after he headbutt the crap out of Mayweather,” he wrote.

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One user sided with Mayweather claiming that what he did was within the rules. “Wanna do me dirty then 2 minutes be friends.. this is boxing bro thats facts,” he wrote. However, a user named Leo claimed that referees always side with ‘Money’ Mayweather no matter who was right. “Referees always sided with Floyd throughout his career,” he wrote.