Sports World Sends Birthday Wishes to ‘National Treasure’ Larry Merchant, 93: A Legendary Boxing Commentator Who Once Wanted to Kick Floyd Mayweather’s A**

Today marks the 93rd birthday celebration of Larry Merchant, a living legend in sports journalism. Hailing from Brooklyn and now based in California, this inductee of the International Boxing Hall of Fame received an outpouring of praise and well-wishes from the entire boxing community. Notably, one of his close friends and renowned sports reporter, Dan Rafael, joined the chorus of birthday greetings.

As Larry Merchant commemorates 35 years of an illustrious career as a sports journalist, significant milestones in his journey as a former HBO boxing commentator have been highlighted by fans around the world. The man whose infamous spat with Floyd Mayweather became a part of boxing history openly shared insights about his birthday and the unique way he plans to spend it.

Larry Merchant only wants 3 candles

Larry Merchant’s impact on boxing was nothing short of legendary. Joining HBO’s boxing coverage in 1978, just five years after its inception, he became a key ringside voice. He retired from broadcasting after an illustrious career spanning 35 years. His final appearance as a boxing commentator on HBO took place during the telecast of HBO’s World Championship Boxing from Houston, Texas on December 15, 2012. Known for his historical perspective, Merchant’s departure left a notable void, eventually filled by Max Kellerman.

Larry Merchant’s notable interviews include a memorable encounter with Floyd Mayweather in 2011. Following a contentious match against Victor Ortiz, the situation escalated into a heated argument between Mayweather and Merchant, during which Mayweather requested HBO to fire him. In response, Merchant replied to Mayweather’s face, “I wish I was 50 years younger and I’d kick your a**!”

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On the occasion of his birthday, he told the NY Post how he plans to celebrate the momentous occasion. Merchant said, “No cake big enough for all the candles I’d need.” When pressed for more on the candles and the cakes, he added, “I just need 3. Two for my mother and father, who had something to do with it.” People in the boxing world have already expressed their gratitude for the legend. Since last morning, there has been an outpouring of affection for the nonagenarian.

Fans wish Merchant a happy 93rd birthday

Fans thanked Merchant for lending his voice to some of the most legendary fights of the nineties and 2000s. Dan Rafael made a post on X about the commentator’s birthday. He even reminisced how 34 years ago on his birthday, Merchant reported the history TKO of Mike Tyson by Buster Douglas.

Furthermore, Rafael even recorded that during their conversation, Merchant told Rafael that Lopez vs. Ortiz and Stevenson vs. De Los Santos were “two of the worst fights I’ve ever seen,” showing that even at his age, his passion for boxing and appreciation for the best fights remain steadfast.

Boxing reporter Michael Woods wrote an article in the celebration of Merchant’s birthday.

Another fan stated that Merchant is a “national treasure.”

Even the producer Mark Ortega sent his old friend birthday wishes. Furthermore, he even recalled his last feature on the Manny Pacquiao vs. Yordenis Ugás fight.

The Big Radio co-host Mike Cagley also mentioned that he’s got great memories of boxing that are related to Larry Merchant.

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And stated that he is an “amazing man.”

A fan commended Merchant, highlighting his consistent authenticity in expressing his genuine feelings about various situations, always keeping it one hundred percent real.

Fans dedicated time to express their admiration for the esteemed former commentator, Larry Merchant, on the occasion of his 93rd birthday. What do you think about Larry Merchant’s commentary? Was he the best to ever do it or is there someone else who deserves that spot? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.

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