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In the world of boxing certain matchups transcend the squared circle and become larger than the sport itself. Among these, the clashes between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and two iconic opponents, Canelo Alvarez and Manny Pacquiao, stand as pillars of the sport’s legacy. With Mayweather’s razor-sharp skills and these marquee showdowns, it was inevitable that fortunes would be amassed, shattering pay-per-view records. Moreover, the fights collectively generated $750 million in revenue, with the fight against Alvarez garnering 150 million while the bout with Pacquiao raked in $600 million.

These seismic events showcased the undeniable allure of Mayweather’s ring artistry, transcending the sport to become a global phenomenon. However, success carries its own baggage. Mayweather’s reluctance to meet these fighters in their prime drew harsh criticism from fans and pundits alike. The veil of invincibility he often wore clashed with the perceptions of those who wished to see him square off against his adversaries in their physical prime.

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Resurfaced claims of Floyd Mayweather over victories against Canelo Alvarez and Manny Pacquiao spark fan backlash

Mayweather’s response to these critiques was characteristically unapologetic. According to him, he made easy work of both Alvarez and ‘Pac-Man’ despite the two being the best boxers alongside Mayweather himself. “Those guys the media talked about them being extraordinary fighters… Canelo, Pacquiao. I made them look ordinary.” he said.

However, fans, in their unforgiving gaze, saw a different reality. Mayweather’s triumphs, they argued, were against versions of his opponents who were not in their prime. The backlash was swift and potent, echoing through the boxing community.

A user claimed that ‘TBE’ was delusional for making these claims while also touting him as a ‘paper champion’. “The American paper champ guy who became extremely delusional. A true hugger and runner at heart” he wrote.

Another user also thought that these fights weren’t as easy as Mayweather presented to the world. “Lol I wouldn’t say easily both fights were good,” he wrote.

Moreover, a user thought that fights involving Alvarez and Pacquiao were entertaining, unlike Mayweather fights. “Canelo and Pacquiao fights are actually entertaining most of the time lmao they box!! not hug and run,” he wrote.

Another user mocked ‘Money’ for not engaging in his fights and competing with a defensive mindset. “The best runner of all time,” he wrote.

Read More: “Desperate Moves”: Fans Lose It After Watching Ryan Garcia’s “Shenanigans” With Floyd Mayweather and Adin Ross

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However, while one fan thought Mayweather beat ‘Saul’ convincingly, he couldn’t do the same against Pacquiao. He added that ‘TBE’ was only focused on defense while the Flipino legend was attacking aggressively.  He beat Canelo convincingly, but Manny looked like he beat Floyd, even the rest of the world would agree and his dad. Manny was the aggressor throwing all the punches and Floyd only run, block and get hit with punches lol” he wrote.

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The paradox that emerges from these narratives reflects the nuanced nature of sports discourse. While Mayweather’s success and skill are undeniable, the controversies surrounding his choice of opponents and subsequent pronouncements linger as asterisks. The debate rages on, as fans and critics dissect the words of the “paper champ” who became an exhibition phenomenon.

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What did you think about Mayweather’s take on fights with Alvarez and Pacquiao? Let us know in the comments.

Watch This Story: Here’s How Billionaire Floyd Mayweather Helped Several Families Effected by Wildfire in Maui

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