In a revelation that has sent shockwaves through the boxing community, Floyd Mayweather Jr., widely regarded as one of the greatest boxers of all time, has admitted that he deliberately waited for Manny Pacquiao to age before agreeing to their highly anticipated fight in 2015. This confession has sparked intense debate and criticism, calling into question the integrity of one of the most lucrative and talked-about matches in boxing history.

The fight between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao was billed as the “Fight of the Century.” Fans and analysts had clamored for this bout for years, as both fighters were at the peak of their careers in the late 2000s. However, negotiations repeatedly stalled, and the fight did not materialize until May 2, 2015, when both fighters were past their prime—Mayweather at 38 and Pacquiao at 36.

Despite their ages, the fight generated immense interest and shattered pay-per-view records, grossing over $600 million. Mayweather emerged victorious with a unanimous decision, solidifying his legacy with a 48-0 record (which he later extended to 50-0).

In a recent interview, Mayweather made a startling admission: he had intentionally waited for Pacquiao to age before agreeing to the fight. “I was always confident in my skills, but boxing is as much a mental game as it is physical,” Mayweather said. “I knew if I waited, Pacquiao would slow down a bit, and that would work to my advantage.”

This confession has reignited debates about the timing of the fight and the strategies employed by both camps. For years, there were speculations and accusations that Mayweather was dodging Pacquiao during the latter’s prime, despite both fighters expressing a desire to face each other.

The reaction to Mayweather’s confession has been swift and varied. Pacquiao’s camp has expressed disappointment but not surprise. “We always believed Manny was ready to fight Floyd anytime, anywhere,” said Freddie Roach, Pacquiao’s long-time trainer. “It’s disheartening to hear that Floyd waited for an advantage, but it doesn’t diminish Manny’s greatness.”

Fans and analysts have also weighed in. Some see Mayweather’s strategy as a calculated move within the sport’s strategic nature, while others view it as a tactic that undermines the spirit of fair competition. Prominent boxing commentator Max Kellerman noted, “This admission by Mayweather may tarnish his legacy in the eyes of some fans. Boxing is about testing yourself against the best, at their best.”

Mayweather’s confession brings to light the intricate balance between strategy and sportsmanship in boxing. While the sport has always involved psychological tactics and strategic planning, there is an expectation that champions will face their rivals at their peak abilities to ensure a fair contest.

Mayweather’s undefeated record and his accolades as one of the best defensive fighters in history are undisputed. However, this revelation may lead some to question the context of his victories and the lengths he went to maintain his perfect record.

In the aftermath of Mayweather’s confession, the boxing community is left to grapple with the implications for the sport’s history and its future. Young fighters and future champions will undoubtedly reflect on this episode as they consider their own paths to greatness.

For Manny Pacquiao, who has since retired from professional boxing and is now focusing on his political career in the Philippines, the confession may offer a bittersweet sense of validation. Despite the timing of their fight, Pacquiao’s impact on the sport and his status as a global icon remain intact.

Floyd Mayweather Jr.’s admission that he waited for Manny Pacquiao to age before their 2015 fight is a shocking confession that has stirred the boxing world. While it underscores the strategic elements of boxing, it also raises ethical questions about sportsmanship and competition. As fans and analysts reflect on this revelation, the legacy of both fighters will continue to be a topic of intense discussion and debate.