Photo Credit:via Michele Eve Sandberg/REX/Shutterstock
In a surprising turn of events during the highly anticipated rematch between Floyd Mayweather and John Gotti III on August 24, 2024, in Mexico City, controversy erupted when Mayweather appeared to dismiss the referee mid-fight. The exhibition bout, organized by Mayweather Promotions, took an unexpected twist in the second round, leaving fans and commentators baffled.
The incident occurred when referee Hector Afu penalized Mayweather for what he deemed an illegal punch to the back of Gotti's head. Replays suggested the blow was a legal right hook, prompting an outraged response from Mayweather. The 47-year-old boxing legend pushed Afu and demanded he exit the ring, reportedly saying "move" and "shut up" while gesturing emphatically.
Moments later, Afu left the ring, replaced by Alfredo Uruzquieta, who officiated the remainder of the fight. This unprecedented move raised questions about the integrity of the match and Mayweather's influence over the proceedings.
The bout itself, a rematch of their chaotic first encounter in June 2023, was largely dominated by Mayweather. However, the lackluster performance drew boos from the audience by the final bell. As an exhibition, no official decision was rendered.
Reflecting on the fight's unusual circumstances, sports journalist Jared Schwartz noted, "What Floyd Mayweather says, goes." This sentiment echoed throughout social media, with fans expressing shock at the mid-fight referee change.
In the post-fight interview, Mayweather sidestepped questions about the referee swap, instead focusing on potential future exhibitions. He dismissed the idea of facing 62-year-old boxing legend Julio Cesar Chavez Sr., stating, "He's one of the legends I look up to and he paved the way for me. He's older now, and if I do an exhibition with him it's not going to look good for me."
This latest controversy adds to Mayweather's complex legacy. While his professional record stands unblemished at 50-0, his post-retirement exhibitions have often courted controversy. The incident with Afu marks a new chapter in the ongoing debate about the role of exhibition matches in professional boxing and the influence of star power on officiating.
