Floyd Mayweather Jr vs Larry Merchant: Who Was Right and Who Was Wrong After the Fight?
by Scott Christ on Sep 18, 2011 5:52 AM EDT
in Boxing Commentary & Opinion
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One of the stories that seems to have really captivated people in the aftermath of the Mayweather vs Ortiz debacle and fight last night is the post-fight interview with Floyd Mayweather Jr and HBO's Larry Merchant. For evidence, it's almost 6 a.m. EDT on Sunday morning, and "Larry Merchant" is still trending on Twitter.
It was a moment that could have gone very ugly, as a couple of proud, and frankly not particularly nice guys got briefly physical simply over somewhat routine -- well, for this fight -- questions.
Here's a transcript of the interview:
Merchant: "The crowd, at least a good part of it, is in an uproar because they felt that you took shots at him unfairly after you were -- went together in the ring, made up for the headbutt, and then you poked him. What's your story?'
Mayweather: "First off, I wanna thank God for this victory, because without God all this wouldn't be possible. I wanna thank my team. I got hit with a dirty shot, and, um, it's protect yourself at all times. I hit him with a left hook-right hand, and that ended the bout."
Merchant: "So you're saying that even though it appeared that he didn't -- wasn't protecting himself, and thought that was part of the ceremony you were going through, of apology, that you unfairly took advantage of it. What do say to those that say, 'What'd you do there? You were winning the fight and in charge.'"
Mayweather: "I just wanna tell everybody that bought pay-per-view, that came out to Las Vegas, thank you. It was a hell of a fight."
Merchant: "Floyd, you know you're a promoter, but now we're talking to you as a prizefighter. Let's take a look at what happened at the end of the fight, and you describe it."
Mayweather: "We touch -- we touch gloves. We're back to fighting. Hook. Right hand. And that's all she wrote."
Merchant: "So for you, it was just an automatic response, let's get on with the fight."
Mayweather: "It's protect yourself at all times. He done something dirty. We're not here to cry and complain about what he did dirty, or what I did dirty. I was victorious. If he wants a rematch, he can get a rematch."
Merchant: "You were in charge of the fight. You were aggressive. And trying, and taking advantage of--"
Mayweather: "You know what I'm gonna do? 'Cause you don't never give me a fair shake, you know that? So I'm gonna let you go and talk to Victor Ortiz, alright? I'm through. Put somebody else up here and give me an interview."
Merchant: "What are you talking about? What are you talking about?"
Mayweather: "You never give me a fair shake! HBO needs to fire you! You don't know shit about boxing! You ain't shit! You not shit!"
Merchant: "I wish I was 50 years younger and I'd kick your ass!"
Mayweather: "You won't do shit!"
This was a moment between two proud men who, quite frankly, have never seemed to much like one another. I don't know if they have any relationship at all outside of these post-fight interviews, but Floyd has a level of disrespect for Merchant, because he believes Merchant does not respect him. And Merchant, it must be said, is considered a disrespectful pundit by many in and around boxing. I have found him at times to be grating, I have criticized him plenty, and just in my own personal opinion, I don't think Merchant adds much to the broadcasts most times out these days. Everyone gets past their prime in a profession, except maybe Vin Scully.
But I think Merchant was just doing his job here. Two big things are at play: Mayweather was very riled up at the moment, still in the heat of battle in a lot of ways, and went overboard. Merchant also went overboard. Merchant would, after interviewing Victor Ortiz, return to ringside with Jim Lampley and not quite apologize, but at least acknowledge that he'd gone too far. He also admitted that no, he does not think that 50 years ago he would have been able to "kick Floyd's ass," but he says he would have tried.
Again, they don't like each other. These are not guys who get together to have lunch, I don't think.
But the unprofessional antics went both ways here. Mayweather started it, but a veteran like Merchant should have known better than to take the bait to that extent. It started normally, and then Mayweather lost it when Merchant again questioned whether or not the blows were fair. I think he was tired of answering the question, though it did appear Merchant was on his way to framing it differently this time, giving weight to Floyd's prior responses. I think Merchant actually had OK intentions with whatever he was about to say, just wanted further clarification. Mayweather wasn't having it, though.
Tempers ran hot. Things got a little testy. But in the end, not a huge deal. Merchant isn't going to kick anyone's ass, and Mayweather isn't going to knock out an old man. As for their rivalry, I buy it. It's one of the realest rivalries in boxing today.
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I think this is a pretty reasonable take on the situation. I was actually surprised that Merchant was doing this fight and not Kellerman given the opinions the two have of each other. I honestly didn’t mind Mayweather going after Merchant here, even if it seemed unprovoked, simply because of my dislike of him as a broadcaster (much like Toney vs. Gray).
I never liked Merchant since the interview with Katsidis after his loss to Marquez. Katsidis’ brother had died in the build up to the fight and bravely Katsidis continued on with the fight and promised to win in memory of his brother.
So Larry’s first question after the loss? About his brother.
Mayweather just said what any boxing fan feels about Merchant.
by Sean Rodrieguez on Sep 18, 2011 7:36 AM EDT reply actions 1 recs
Protect yourself at all times
Ortiz was getting beat up, couldn’t take it, attempted a ridiculously blatant headbutt, and got what he deserved, imo.
Protect yourself at all times.
Merchant is a douche.
I just saw what Floyd said to that old fart and all i can say is, NICE ONE, FLOYD. :)
Hahahaha. You said what a lot of people think about that horrible old man.
Merchant says to Ortiz, “what are you apologising for”? Erm, for trying to break Mayweather’s nose with an headbutt!
What a tool Merchant is.
He is just so obvious in his ridiculously biased hatred for Mayweather.
And Larry, you’re lucky you’re not 50 years younger cos you wouldn’t be getting back up like Ortiz eventually did.
I don’t like either of them much as personalitites but Merchant is my least favourite person in boxing.
Sometimes you need someone like Floyd to put a guy like Merchant in his place, imo.
by Matt Mosley on Sep 18, 2011 8:38 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
I agree with Matt 100 percent
If this was anybody else that this happened to and they reacted the same way, they would be cheered and Ortiz would be the rightful villain.
I remember a guy in the UFC KO’d a guy before the bell even started for kissing him. And guess what, he was cheered and the other guy was made to be the fool who dserved what he got. I think his name was Keith Herring.
People love this guy for that. But Mayweather, a boastful, bragging, money flaunting, egotistical, (This is my world and you’re living in it) guy like Mayweather, he’s the bad guy.
Unbelievable.
It just shows you by the negative comments how many people lost money on Ortiz last night.
"Winning is Everything"
Failure is not an Option
If you're not first, you're last
Heath Herring – he went on to fight in the UFC, but that fight was under the K-1 banner I think.
Agree with your post, though.
"A champion is someone who gets up when he can't." - Jack Dempsey
by Jack.Barrington on Sep 18, 2011 10:41 AM EDT up reply actions
I remember a guy in the UFC KO’d a guy before the bell even started for kissing him.
Haha! I saw that, but i thought it was in Pride that that happened.
by Matt Mosley on Sep 18, 2011 10:45 AM EDT up reply actions
Oh okay
I knew it was one of those mixed martial arts fights.
And like I said, this guy really threw a “sucker punch” if you want to call it that.
But because of the circumstances, people loved it. The same way they should love what Mayweather did to Ortiz last night.
They would’ve loved it if it was reversed roles.
Did anyone hear Jim Lampley trying to force Manny Steward and Larry Merchant to say that Ortiz is the “Real” winner and not Mayweather?? But both guys, even Merchant to my surprise said: No, Mayweather is the “real” winner tonight.
Lampley felt like an idiot. Probaly more than when he rewatched Pacquaio—-Clottey,——-BANG, BANG, BANG!!!!!
"Winning is Everything"
Failure is not an Option
If you're not first, you're last
Haha
Lampley felt like an idiot.
Lampley is an idiot.
by Matt Mosley on Sep 18, 2011 10:58 AM EDT up reply actions
And i tend to agree that people some fans wouldn’t be quite as bothered by this if it was done by anyone else but Floyd.
by Matt Mosley on Sep 18, 2011 11:00 AM EDT up reply actions
I’m certain it was on a Pride card. I watched it not long ago on a Pride dvd and i have never seen K-1 Heroes.
by Matt Mosley on Sep 19, 2011 12:21 PM EDT up reply actions
Check out Herring’s fight record and look at the NC vs Nakao.
http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Heath-Herring-13
It was a K-1 card.
Fair enough
I must have seen a highlight of it on a Pride show or something.
I have seen it before though and i knew what Zfan was referring to as soon as he mentioned it.
It happened as they were getting instructions from the referee, IIRC.
BTW
Thanks for going to the trouble of trying to set up the NFL Fanstasy league.
With the time diffence i was either at work or asleep when the draft happened though, so i missed it.
I think the places were filled pretty quick too, with it being public.
It’s a shame we couldn’t get 12 BLH’ers but anyway.
I joined one on NFL.com.
Hopefully we can do one next season.
Thanks for your interest in the league. The public one filled up faster than I imagined. It would have been nice to get 12 people on, but oh well.
I recognized a couple of familiar names, so it should be a fun time.
We had out first game yesterday where I cam out on top :), so it should be a good season.
Hows your league treating you.
It was Heath Herring and it wasnt in the UFC, it was in Japan, and he kissed him when they were face to face before the fight started and Heath jacked him.
What Floyd did was bitch shit, it was legal but it was bitch shit, cant believe so many boxing people are saying its ok.
I guess with mma becoming bigger, going to fox and boxing only has two fighters fans really care about, Floyd and Manny, something like this they dont want to make a big stink about and put boxing in a bad light.
Why make a big issue about it and call it cheap and shit and give more people a reason to bash on boxing.
The whole night was a fucking joke, Ortiz was dirty, Floyd was dirty, Floyd and Larry get into it after, the whole event made boxing look stupid so I guess the writers dont want to pile on and make boxing look bad so they all come up with its ok.
I cannot agree at all
basically its less than half a second after they hug that Floyd takes the opportunity as they come apart to cheap shot him, That is all that it is. Is it allowed/technically legal? whatever – its not right. It was calculated. It wasn’t heat of the moment stuff like Ortiz, and for me that makes it much worse.
yes, Ortiz got what he deseved with his headbutt – being penalised a point. Floyd’s cheap shot actually won him the fight. Yes, he ld most likely have won anyway. But still, I’m personally disgusted by it – he could have punished him legally by beating him up over the rest of the fight.
"I live what you talk. I Live What You Talk.'’ (Bernard Hopkins)
I kinda agree
Ortiz had already paid the price for his illegal move. Why not just pick up where you left off and continue to kick his ass? Mayweather knew EXACTLY what he was doing. He planned to sucker punch Ortiz the whole time. That’s obvious. Illegal? I guess not, cuz Cortez is a completely useless individual, but it was a bitch move, no doubt.
he could have punished him legally
He did punish him legally.
"A champion is someone who gets up when he can't." - Jack Dempsey
by Jack.Barrington on Sep 18, 2011 10:25 AM EDT up reply actions
it was only "legal" cuz Cortez is a hack who wasn't paying attention
legal or not, it was a clear sucker punch/bitch move.
absolutely
and I think thats the real point.
"I live what you talk. I Live What You Talk.'’ (Bernard Hopkins)
Once i found out that Cortez had restarted the fight, i had no problem with what happened.
by Matt Mosley on Sep 18, 2011 10:28 AM EDT up reply actions
Same here. All we can really ask is that fighters obey the rules of the sport; Floyd did that.
"A champion is someone who gets up when he can't." - Jack Dempsey
by Jack.Barrington on Sep 18, 2011 10:31 AM EDT up reply actions
I respect how you and Matt think
and no doubt many/most others see it that way. We’ll just have to differ on this one, as I will lways strongly feel that what he did was wrong. Not in the technical sense, but morally. But thats ok, as long as he’s happy with himself, good for him.
"I live what you talk. I Live What You Talk.'’ (Bernard Hopkins)
I totally understand where you are coming from Brian, and i’m not just saying that because i respect your opinion in general.
I can see why some are disgusted with Mayweather’s sucker punch and i hate that kind of thing in general.
But i just think Ortiz kind of brought it on himself.
by Matt Mosley on Sep 18, 2011 10:38 AM EDT up reply actions
to an extent yeah
he did bring it on himself, but it wold have been nice to see Floyd not respond that way after having some time to cool down a little. But that wouldn’t have come out of him without the headbutt, so…it is what it is. I would hate to win like that, but then I’m not a fighter.
"I live what you talk. I Live What You Talk.'’ (Bernard Hopkins)
I won’t act like it’s my favourite thing to see in a fight — I’d much rather have seen Floyd shake it off, step up the pace and really take over the next few rounds like he began to in the first — but at the same time I can’t get too annoyed with Floyd for throwing those shots, all things considered.
"A champion is someone who gets up when he can't." - Jack Dempsey
by Jack.Barrington on Sep 18, 2011 10:39 AM EDT up reply actions
*began to in the third
"A champion is someone who gets up when he can't." - Jack Dempsey
by Jack.Barrington on Sep 18, 2011 10:40 AM EDT up reply actions
I will always strongly feel that what he did was wrong. Not in the technical sense, but morally.
Morally? I think you’re dead right. But this is Floyd Mayweather and it’s in a boxing ring where fighters don’t often whisper pleasantries in each others ear.
I don’t think Floyd will lose much sleep about what he did.
BTW, i corrected you’re typo. :)
by Matt Mosley on Sep 18, 2011 10:55 AM EDT up reply actions
Ortiz did what Zab Judah did to Mayweather
He just gave up and started fouling a little bit more early
"Winning is Everything"
Failure is not an Option
If you're not first, you're last
If it had been a close fight and Vic had not blatantly headbutted Floyd, then i think what Floyd did was totally wrong, and i would never do something like that myself.
But Vic had just bust Floyd’s lip with a headbutt in a fight Floyd was dominating.
I can understand why he was so angry and did what he did, sneaky and unsportsmanliek though it was.
Floyd’s from the street. That’s how he plays and it’s not always fair, but hey, if he had broken the rules he would have been DQ’d or there would be an investigation by the commission. Neither of those things happened.
by Matt Mosley on Sep 18, 2011 10:33 AM EDT up reply actions
Cortez might not have been paying attention, but Ortiz should've been
Who cares. He got what he deserved.
You throw dirt, I throw mud.
You throw rocks, I throw stones.
Go try and win your money back in the Pacquaio fight
"Winning is Everything"
Failure is not an Option
If you're not first, you're last
I’m personally disgusted by it
That was my first reaction too, and i wondered if Floyd was going to be DQ’d. I also wondered the same after Vic’s headbutt.
They were both out of order, i agree, but Floyd was within the rules, Vic wasn’t and i i don’t think Floyd would “most likely” have won.
I’m sure he definitely would have won. He was playing with Ortiz up to the headbutt.
That’s why Vic headbutted him in the first place, becuase he knew he was out of his depth and he was frustrated.
I’m n ot saying what Floyd did was right or fair, but it was within the rules and when Vic chose to play that game, he got what he deserved, imo.
I really don’t see any need for a rematch, as some have asked for. Floyd will dominated him again, imo, but if they want to make it, whatever.
I know what i was watching though, Vic getting a boxing lesson and not long before the headbutt i was thinking "crap, my season is over with the Pick ‘em game because Otiz is getting stopped tonight and i’m all in on Mayweather by decision!:
by Matt Mosley on Sep 18, 2011 10:25 AM EDT up reply actions
to be fair
maybe they could both have been DQ’d. And I was probably being generous, lts say Floyd would definitely have won.
And yeah, I was with you there with the decision thing…. :((halfway through but might be a way back already!
"I live what you talk. I Live What You Talk.'’ (Bernard Hopkins)
You’re doing OK from what i remember.
I’ve lost my mojo……Going down like the Titanic! :)
by Matt Mosley on Sep 18, 2011 10:35 AM EDT up reply actions
ulises solis has the thing wrapped up
he’ll have it won with a season to spare!
"I live what you talk. I Live What You Talk.'’ (Bernard Hopkins)
I don't mind playing just to do as well as possible.
But yeah, Solis is amazingly good at picking fights. I hope he puts his money where his points are and makes some cash off of his acumen.
Boxing writer: "Iran, what are you going to do when you retire?"
Iran Barkley: "Rob your house"
BB, Spot on my brother
One was calculated. a cheap and easy shot at a win. Not a stupid and deductible offense. a potentially deady and lethal one. Legal of not, Floyd’s shot….which no matter what anyone here says, annoyed the crap out of the live audience and the HBO announcers who were standing right there, Steward included…..was a cheap ay to victory. And the shit was proud of it.
Mercahnt is a journalist. He wa supposed to ask precisely that question. “Why Floyd do you think the crowd is booing/” Floyd’s answer was his answer. Classless and clueless. He got a referee that has a history of protecting him and overlooking his BS elbows and then when the old fool (Cortez, not Merchant) was doing hald his job (llooking away was not doing his job), Floyd flat out sucjker punched the ‘fool’ Ortiz.
Ortiz is disgusting not because he headbutted. Plenty of guys do that crap and get points taken away. Others do it and get away with it. But his ‘hi five’, kissing and ’bro hugs make me sick.
He is a weak headed kisd with one good victory. Floyd is a weak character with 42.
"Silence is golden when you can't think of a good answer"
---- Muhammed Ali
by pakinpower on Sep 18, 2011 10:28 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Ortiz is as dumb as a box of rusty nails.
"Luck is when preparation meets opportunity." - Mike Quarry
lol
what do you think? acceptable?!
"I live what you talk. I Live What You Talk.'’ (Bernard Hopkins)
He was boxing with only a hammer in his tool box
And a rusty nail of a referree.
If I never see either again, I could care less.
If I never hear Floyd talk again, that’s even better.
"Silence is golden when you can't think of a good answer"
---- Muhammed Ali
It was legal but it was a cheap shot.
Dont see how anyone can say otherwise, it was bitch shit. Both Ortiz and Floyd were dirty.
reminds me of a UFC fighter Manvel G, I wont spell his last name, in a fight they came out and go to touch gloves and Manny quick throws a leg kick, now the fight wasnt ended but it just looked so cheap and classless, fans still remember that and dislike him for that, I’m one of them.
Just diry shit, Floyd could have won the fair way.
Guess we know Floyd can knock someone out with hands down and not ready.
I admit is was a disappointing ending to the fight and quite shocking when it happened. But Ortiz started all of this simply because he was swinging and missing and getting frustrated.
He couldn’t take the fact that he wasn’t on Floyd’s level talent wise so he fouled him, which them provoked Floyd’s reaction.
The difference between the two controversial occurences is that Floyd’s punches were legal and i can’t believe how everyone is jumping on Floyd so much when Ortiz was the guy who commited the blatant pub brawl type foul.
I just think some people’s hatred for Mayweather clouds their judgement at times.
Yes, he was ruthless and unsportsman like, but he was also within the rules, and he was provoked.
Well, it is not so clear, as the crowd, who Floyd pbelives he is responsible for attracting for selling (and for selling tickets to, felt overwhelmingly otherwise. So did Steward who was speeacless.
The headline should be one cheap shot deserved an even greater.
"Silence is golden when you can't think of a good answer"
---- Muhammed Ali
Honestly, Mayweather could care less what the crowd or a group of angry Ortiz supporters think
Ortiz fouled the sh!t out of him, and he KO’d his ass for it.
Last night was probaly the best night of sleep that Mayweather had in years, even with the fat, swollen busted lip.
"Winning is Everything"
Failure is not an Option
If you're not first, you're last
I doubt that
He is a mentally screwed up kid who no matter how much respect there is for his skills, he is not at all comfortable with the respect or lack thereof that he has not achieved on a broader level.
His appeal was not improved. His endorsement value either. His sucker punch added a W to his record but that’s about it. It did not add one zero to the amount of Money threat the Money Mayweather Brand so badly desires.
If you think otherwise, you are thinking like a Floyd boxing fan. Not a business man…which Floyd so loudly claims to be.
"Silence is golden when you can't think of a good answer"
---- Muhammed Ali
Quick question
If this were the other way around,(Roles Reversed) what would you say??
Come on now, be honest.
I read a comment from you the other day saying that you wish Floyd got his ass kicked.
So I know Mayweather is in an uphill battle when it comes to you
"Winning is Everything"
Failure is not an Option
If you're not first, you're last
Honestly, I was flat out dissappointed
I saw what I expected, which was a precise, highly experienced Floyd doing exacly what he does best. Controlling the fight and dictating the terms of engagement. So so far, so good.
As for Ortiz, I was already suspiscious before his ring walk about his mental strength, especially after wathing him hi-fiving evryone in Floyd’s posse at the weigh-in. He just looked pleased to be there…not the flat out determined look that he had before Berto.
As for the fight, it was good but Ortiz looked too tentative for anyone who thought that his youth, strength, naivete, or energy would be his advantage. Part of that is Floyd but part of that is the Ortiz of the last three rounds of Peterson. Mentally weak.
I thought the fight might…and I mean might…get interesting as Ortiz closed the distance, not because he was so effective, although he was not completely ineffective, but because that was the only way he could even majke it a competitive fight.
Floyd doen’t love infighting and it took Ortiz almost three rounds to close the distance. Ali battered Joe frazier horribly in Round One in their first fight but Frazier was a monster infighter and the round ended with Frazier on Ali’s ass. Ortiz should have been prepared to be Frazier before he entered the ring. At minimum, Castillo or even Oscar. But he is not nor has evr ben in that league.
So I was dissappointed. Not surprised.
As to the fourth round, I originally thought Cortez, has been known to allow Floyd his indiscretions (JMM refused to have him as referree) was too quick with his deduction and stopping the action. I clearly saw that I was wrong. Ortiz, the fool, headbutted not when he was doing badly….but when he was doing his relativ best work! He’s a butthead.
Then Floyd showed me nothing but a rule book by hitting a defenseless fool.
As I said and showed below, at that point he could have knocked out Vitali Kilitschko if he wasn’t looking …or horse. So who care about the KO.
As a fan who wanted a non-controversial fight, I am dissappointed.
I hopethat answers your question Zfan.
"Silence is golden when you can't think of a good answer"
---- Muhammed Ali
Yes, I agree. The fight was very controversial
But what I’m trying to figure out is why is Mayweather being painted as the devil while he was putting on a clean masterful performance and Ortiz was the one who did the dirty move and Floyd retaliated?
"Winning is Everything"
Failure is not an Option
If you're not first, you're last
Because irrespective of one’s opinion of Ortiz generally and his obvious, deliberate foul in particular, PBS’s method of retaliation, though perfectly legal, was the absolute bottom in terms of unsportsmanlike behavior, and people don’t like that.
There is no safety in numbers, or in anything else--James Thurber, 1939
That just about says it all.
"Silence is golden when you can't think of a good answer"
---- Muhammed Ali
Merchant’s turned into such a bitter hack (he has been for a few years, actually) that I can’t say I feel sorry for him at all. A clash of egos really, nothing more, but I’ve always found Merchant to be disrespectful to fighters.
"A champion is someone who gets up when he can't." - Jack Dempsey
by Jack.Barrington on Sep 18, 2011 9:11 AM EDT reply actions
Larry Legend
Larry is a legend and HOF broadcaster, he stood his ground against Floyd. I’m actually surprised Floyd didnt try to pull the race card or said something even far worse. It must take a really big man to pick a fight with an octogenarian. Floyd could have stated his case respectfully without going on a tirade but he did. The replay shows the punch was legal and confirmed by the NSAC, but the frustration of the boxing fans is what Larry vented and had every right to do. Floyd didnt need that cheap shot to win the match, but he did it anyway.
At the post fight press conference, Floyd made up even more excuses about why he doesnt need Manny Pacquiao. So all this debate about Pacquiao needing to take a test should be put to rest. Floyd himself has no admitted that he wants no part of Manny.
Floyd didn’t try to pick a fight with Larry. He said he didn’t know shit about boxing and should be fired. Merchant tried to pick a fight with Floyd.
Twitter: @Mike_Fagan_13
by Mike Fagan on Sep 18, 2011 10:42 AM EDT up reply actions 5 recs
Where was Max Kellerman anyway? I know they’ve had trouble before I wonder if that had anything to do with it.
Obviously Mayweather doesn’t like to be interviewed after fights.
Vin Scully is great and I never want to see him leave but he’s definitely passed his prime.
http://fistonchin.com http://brightlightssports.com
He doesnt like to be interviewed cause he knows the next question is gonna be stop ducking Manny.
But this time he knew it was gonna be you showed no class, no sportsmanship and you took a cheap shot knockout and then they were gonna ask why are you still ducking Manny, so he really didnt want to be interviewed.
Larry did nothing in that interview to deserve that but Floyd knew the next question was gonna be about Manny so he wanted to end the interview.
Floyd got mad because Merchant asked the questions that 99% of people watching wanted asked. Merchant, if anything, was pretty soft on Floyd. When Merchant said “So for you, it was just an automatic response, let’s get on with the fight.” he was offering Floyd a perfect way out of that line of questioning and Floyd’s response was basically to start screaming at him. Whatever you think about Merchant, you can’t really say he was overly harsh with Floyd last night. And I really don’t see how anyone can be upset about the “if I was 50 years younger” line given that it was a response to a guy yelling “you ain’t shit” at him. I’ll defend Floyd against Pac-tards all day but some Floyd fans should try to be less biased about this. As a boxer, he looked great for 4 rounds. As a public persona, he did not have a good night.
Merchant had it coming for years
Good Job, Floyd. Kill two birds with one stone. Ortiz physically, and Merchant verbally.
"Winning is Everything"
Failure is not an Option
If you're not first, you're last
After watching the interview in full i agree that Larry didn’t deserve what he got on this occasion.
But he got what he should have got for past transgressions and disrespecting of fighters, imo.
Admittedly he does ask some tough questions that need asking but he’s just got such an arrogant manner about him.
Jim Gray – Watch out!…You’re next. :)
by Matt Mosley on Sep 18, 2011 10:42 AM EDT up reply actions
Larry should be praised
The remark he made was just him fooling around with an over the top Floyd. He was smiling and joking throughout that childish little fit. The comment about kickig his ass was purely for entertainment. And it was entertaining.
Larry asked legit questions and Floyd went nuts because he’s used to having yes men around him. He is, without question, the most insecure top fighter I’ve ever seen.
I am sure he had tears in his eyes at the presser. Just like after the Baldomir fight. He can’t handle heat.
I hope that part isn’t edited out of the hbo replay.
'Ello G'vnor!
by IHateMMA on Sep 18, 2011 10:19 AM EDT via iPhone app reply actions
Merchant needs to lay off that macho shit. HE is a mean-spirited klittle twerp, but tonight he
was in the right. He still should lay off that “if I were 50 years younge” senility. Fact is, if he were, Mayweather would kill him.
"Luck is when preparation meets opportunity." - Mike Quarry
by Boss Man on Sep 18, 2011 10:35 AM EDT reply actions 1 recs
He was laughing because Floyd couldn't stand the heat.
He even acknowledged that he could never have ‘beat’ him at any time.
Floyd is a waek minded child who was respinding not to Larry but to the whole gestalt of the moment. He was being booed for hitting Ortiz. For sitting on his team’s shoulders and waving. And for his inprofessional attempts to answer legit questions.
Bad night for all three men in the ring IMO.
Not for Merchant.
"Silence is golden when you can't think of a good answer"
---- Muhammed Ali
Yeah, he even said that Floyd would beat him 50 years ago
I think Merchant is probaly laughing about it right now a day later, Mayweather also.
When Mayweather retires, these guys will be good golfing buddies. Mark my words.
"Winning is Everything"
Failure is not an Option
If you're not first, you're last
When Mayweather retires, these guys will be good golfing buddies.
I don’t think so. This isn’t a situation like Howard and Ali. Ali, for all his mouth, could be a mature gentleman in his private life. Floyd really is nuts. I think these two guys generally dislike each other, and they come from utterly different walks of life. Plus Floyd doesn’t give any indication of ever giving up his man-child personality. I don’t see them ever being friends.
Boxing writer: "Iran, what are you going to do when you retire?"
Iran Barkley: "Rob your house"
Time heals everything
I hope one day these guys can get past their problems
"Winning is Everything"
Failure is not an Option
If you're not first, you're last
Time heals everything?—it doesn’t.
There is no safety in numbers, or in anything else--James Thurber, 1939
Yeah, I’m still pissed off about the Pacquiao vs De La Hoya undercard. Every time I think about it, I seethe.
Bad Left Hook
"To the town of Agua Fria rode a stranger one fine day..."
by Scott Christ on Sep 18, 2011 8:07 PM EDT up reply actions
I think it is the fans that lost overall. They deserved better andgot it from the earlier fights at least
I spent 11 years in the ring myself and fought many an ugly battle at times. Ortiz and the headbutt was pure stupidity on his part at the heat of moment, but Floyd and his cheap-shot/sucker punches was waaaaaaaay overboard. Agreed- “protect yourself at all time” as it’s the first rule of boxing your taught, but Floyd knew Ortiz wasn’t going to be protecting himself after he apoligized for the headbutt and took advantage of the situation. As usual I am disapointed with Floyds behaviour. Pure Arrogance
"pain is only weakness leaving the body" jumpn
by progolf on Sep 18, 2011 11:14 AM EDT reply actions 1 recs
ditto from another dissappointed fan of boxing
"Silence is golden when you can't think of a good answer"
---- Muhammed Ali
I can see being disappointed in the ending of that one fight.
But how could you be disappointed with the card as a whole? Personally, I can’t remember the last time all of the fights on a card were at least compelling.
Boxing writer: "Iran, what are you going to do when you retire?"
Iran Barkley: "Rob your house"
Just the main event, Matt
And the very fast stoppage of Gomez v Canelo.
the boxers all did their jobs and the promoters deserve props for a full night of cards
"Silence is golden when you can't think of a good answer"
---- Muhammed Ali
wheres the script?
fixed fight plain and simple, horrible acting by cortez, a referee doesn’t see the knockdown and counts anyway? vince mcmahon set this up.
"An atheist is a man who has no invisible means of support." Archbishop Sheen
by THERE is No CoMPETiTioN on Sep 18, 2011 11:20 AM EDT reply actions
I loved the 4 round fight
What, would you want that, or a tactical, boring jab-fest for twelve rounds with no drama???
Come on, stop it.
"Winning is Everything"
Failure is not an Option
If you're not first, you're last
Sucker Punch?
What sucker punch? Floyd hit him fair and square…the ref had called time in, the fight re-started and like Merchant said “let’s get on with the fight”.
The post fight interview is another story. LM was asking a very gentle, respectful and logical question and Floyd got all up in his 86 yr old face. I respect Floyd in the ring during a fight, but as soon as the fight stops, so does my respect.
"In war, as in prostitution, the amateur is often better than the professional". Napoleon.
watch it again
slow-mo on you tube, Cortez wasn’t even watching, Ortiz hands were down after backing up after the apology and looking at Cortiz saying something, (probably appologizing to him to), Floyd wacks Ortiz with a left and Cortez, still isn’t watching and Ortiz is still saying something to Cortez, them the cheap right hand by Floyd. Thats what I see.
"pain is only weakness leaving the body" jumpn
Floyd should at least been a man about it, rather than taking that intentional cheap shot.
I remember when Gatti was beating up on Ward in the third fight and Mickey wasn’t hitting back, Gatti backed off and asked the ref to stop the fight. I understand it’s not a gentlemans game, but that type of behaviour does nothing for the sport of boxing except make us all look bad
"pain is only weakness leaving the body" jumpn
Why do people keep saying:Oh, but Cortez wasn't even looking
So what.What does Joe Cortez’s eyes have to do with Victor Ortiz’s eyes.
Point is: Victor started it, Floyd finished it. Literaly.
"Winning is Everything"
Failure is not an Option
If you're not first, you're last
Here is the first rule of being a referree:
The referee’s primary responsibility shall be to maintain the safety and welfare of the boxers at all times.
"Silence is golden when you can't think of a good answer"
---- Muhammed Ali
with all due respect…..Cortez DID call time in, the fight was continued, and the fact that he wasn’t looking at the boxers is not relevant. I agree Cortez should have separated the two boxers more, mayber 10 feet or so, but it was ORTIZ who kept trying to hug/kiss Floyd. Once Cortez called time in (which he did) then after that point Floyd did was legal.
"In war, as in prostitution, the amateur is often better than the professional". Napoleon.
by FrankinDallas on Sep 18, 2011 11:44 AM EDT up reply actions
It's about vulernability. He apologized,went over make sure shit was cool regardless what refs or rules stated.
To hit an unguarded man requires no skill. It’s no different if me & you are beefing & I run up and clock u. Is it legal? Yes. Skilled? No.
Right
He could have knocked out Vitali Klitschko…or Horse.
Being proud of that makes me sick…as a boxing fan.
It was a punk hitting a punk. Nothing more.
"Silence is golden when you can't think of a good answer"
---- Muhammed Ali
It’s no different if me & you are beefing & I run up and clock u. Is it legal? Yes.
Er, that wouldn’t be legal though would it?
"A champion is someone who gets up when he can't." - Jack Dempsey
by Jack.Barrington on Sep 18, 2011 12:02 PM EDT up reply actions
He shouldn't have to apologize because he shouldn't have done what he did to start
How’s that.
"Winning is Everything"
Failure is not an Option
If you're not first, you're last
I don’t know why everybody is saying that the end of the the fight was so disappointing. It is something that live, in the moment, excited me as much as anything in boxing. And then rather than just calming down finishing my drink and talking about what a nice fight we’d just watched, I was able to talk for a couple hours, and probably for the next 20 years about how that was the ‘craziest thing I’ve ever seen’.
It belongs in the highlight reels of boxing's hall of shame
With Golota, Tyson (ear), RJJ (Griffin) and AA (Dirrell).
Oh, and this:
http://youtu.be/O8cDfnQD0ws
"Silence is golden when you can't think of a good answer"
---- Muhammed Ali
hahahahahahahahahahahaaha, that was awesome (Well, not if he actually hit a real horse, but if it’s just fake special effects it’s awesome!)
Bob Arum would promote Lucifer himself if he could put asses in the seats.
I wish I could post it as a video, not a link
It was the first thing I thought of after last night
"Silence is golden when you can't think of a good answer"
---- Muhammed Ali
Larry Holmes dropkicking Trevor Berbick from the roof of a car belongs there as well
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5zlQqSCzRrA
Bad Left Hook - The SB Nation boxing blog
"Baseball is played on the field, not on a calculator."
I loved it
Me and the wife loved.
We ordered it and DVR’d it. And then went and watched it at this night spot. It was totally awesome. Everyone loved it
I guess if you didnt like Mayweather before this, you like him even less, if you did like Mayweather before this, you love him even more.
"Winning is Everything"
Failure is not an Option
If you're not first, you're last
You paid for the fight and saw it somewhere else? You do know HBO will repeat it and it will be available online pretty soon, right? So no need to DVR it whatsoever if you were going to go to a bar.
Bob Arum would promote Lucifer himself if he could put asses in the seats.
I like the live footage
I know HBO replays it a week later, but they ONLY replay the fight and the fight only. I like the dressing room talk, the ring entrance, the introduction , the fight and the post fight interviews.
HBO only shows the fight. Once the 12th round sounds they skip to the decision, and over.
"Winning is Everything"
Failure is not an Option
If you're not first, you're last
I’m not sure which bothered me more: Floyd’s sucker punch on Ortiz or Manny and Mosley’s love taps at the start and end of each round in their fight.
Fighters are supposed to fight after all.
Ortiz lost me at the weigh in, Matt
He was all hug and kisses.
"Silence is golden when you can't think of a good answer"
---- Muhammed Ali
That, along with his street fight headbutt.
by Matt Mosley on Sep 18, 2011 12:30 PM EDT up reply actions
you forgot to include leonard ellerbe in the transcript.
Mayweather: “It’s protect yourself at all times. He done something dirty. We’re not here to cry and complain about what he did dirty, or what I did dirty. I was victorious. If he wants a rematch, he can get a rematch.”
Merchant: “You were in charge of the fight. You were aggressive. And trying, and taking advantage of—”
Mayweather: “You know what I’m gonna do? ‘Cause you don’t never give me a fair shake, you know that? So I’m gonna let you go and talk to Victor Ortiz, alright? I’m through. Put somebody else up here and give me an interview.”
Merchant: "What are you talking about?
Ellerbe: “You heard him!”
Merchant: “What are you talking about?”
Floyd complaining about HBO not giving him a fair shake is like Sarah Palin complaining about the media or Kim Kardashian complainng about paparazzi.
Give us the biggest break. They made him a star for Christsakes.
"Silence is golden when you can't think of a good answer"
---- Muhammed Ali
Jim Lampley seemed like he had more hate than Merchant
"Winning is Everything"
Failure is not an Option
If you're not first, you're last
100%
Im here 100% percent with Larry. Has was asking the questiions that I was doing myself. “What the f— happened?” Im glad he confronted him. At least I would confront anyone whot tells me in live TV that Im a shit.
Larry is a legend. He was around when the mob was still controlling fights and knows what kind of people run boxing theses days. Obviously, in our overapologetic and assertive times you need someone like Kellerman, but dont deny Larry.
He is an obnoxious twit who hates boxing. And while he was relatively low key in his questioning he has a history of completely disrespecting and digging at Floyd. After a boring UD that might be a decent tactic to drub up some excitement. But after what had just happened he was completely the wrong guy to send in there. Don’t think that every other interaction Floyd has had with the man didn’t color how he interpreted the line of questioning and lead to that scene.
by tkeithwhite on Sep 18, 2011 12:54 PM EDT up reply actions
The thing is
I think eventually Merchant was going to ask him about Pacquiao and Mayweather was just trying to avoid that question at all cost.
That's an interesting point
Never thought of it myself. No doubt Mayweather hates hearing the Pacquiao question, and knowing his insecurities, it wouldn’t surprise me that he would go to such lengths to end the interview before it got to that.
The worst part about this whole thing is that nobody is talking about Floyd’s reverse Fred Flinstone outfit.
haha!
Boxing writer: "Iran, what are you going to do when you retire?"
Iran Barkley: "Rob your house"
Cortez did say “Let’s go” or something to restart the fight, but SHOULD a decent ref restart a fight when you aren’t looking at the fighters? Or when one of the fighter’s hands are still down lower than their balls??
Regardless, Ortiz is a head case and I really feel he was looking for a way out.
As far as Merchant goes, I’m not really a fan of his, like Scott said he doesn’t really add much to a broadcast for me, but I thought it was hilarious. If we have to pay $70 to see a fight end like that I’m glad he added his own drama to it.
LOL - freaking priceless
I’m not a fan of Mayweather personally, I think he is a great fighter in his own respects thought, but I absolutely loathe Merchant… haha
Team Monster:
JPP
"Da Real" Scott
Greg JONES
Herzlich
Paysinger
Jacquin Williams
and SASH
And boxing wonders why it's becoming so unpopular.
Honestly that was one of the most blatant attempts at a headbutt i’ve ever seen. It almost looked telegraphed. That was the first boxing fight i’ve watched in about a year. Completely no class morons were in the ring. ortiz, mayweather and merchant all acted very unprofessional. And this is why I don’t follow boxing anymore
And boxing wonders why it’s becoming so unpopular.
Let’s wait for the PPV numbers before we start hammering those nails.
"A champion is someone who gets up when he can't." - Jack Dempsey
by Jack.Barrington on Sep 18, 2011 2:10 PM EDT up reply actions
Did you watch the other three fights that were on before the main event?
Boxing writer: "Iran, what are you going to do when you retire?"
Iran Barkley: "Rob your house"
love your "Fat City" avatar. I just read it
by Hermano Cerdo on Sep 18, 2011 2:21 PM EDT up reply actions
It's a tremendous book.
Have you seen the movie version with Stacy Keach and Jeff Bridges? Also superb.
Boxing writer: "Iran, what are you going to do when you retire?"
Iran Barkley: "Rob your house"
They were all pretty entertaining, and the first two were both closely fought wars.
Personally, I was happy with the card. I also think a lot of casual fans, even those who only tuned in to the main event, were entertained by the madness of it all. I don’t think casual fans have the high scruples that you seem to have. Most just want to be entertained. I doubt boxing’s stock went down after this fight.
Boxing writer: "Iran, what are you going to do when you retire?"
Iran Barkley: "Rob your house"
I agree Matt
Im sure people were not appalled by anything too much last night in the fight. I mean, they did come to see a fight right? Not Sunday Mass
"Winning is Everything"
Failure is not an Option
If you're not first, you're last
I am completely behind Merchant up until the "if I were 50 years younger … " etc. That was purely personal and out of place.
My thoughts on what happened: I understand the “protect yourself at all times” line. But, I feel, quite strongly, actually, that a fighter has to have an internal moral compass. Mayweather knew that Ortiz was not fully engaged and ready, and he should have waited until everyone, Ortiz, Cortez, and he, were ready to go.
This is not streetfighting, although it can sometimes (not usually) be as dangerous. But it’s a sport, and the rules are only partially external. There has to be a sense of responsibility as well.
Larry merchant needs to quit.
Larry Merchant is the most biased commentator in sports. I think Floyd could have told him off a lil more eloquently, but he was right. Even after the blow up, he gave Ortiz softball questions to explain his headbutt, and in Ortiz’s half-assed responses, Larry did not what to elaborate further on those.
Larry is sick and I hope HBO gives him his walking papers soon. Max Kellerman if half the age and has twice the integrity.
Larry takes too long to spit out what he's trying to say
That’s what bugged Floyd
I guarantee that you will speak slower when you are 86 yrs old.
"In war, as in prostitution, the amateur is often better than the professional". Napoleon.
by FrankinDallas on Sep 18, 2011 4:20 PM EDT up reply actions
Best Part
Merchant was trying to say that he was going to ask Floyd about Pacquiao. Huh? Merchant was giving Mayweather a tough time about the sucker punch. I’m not sure if Floyd should have shouted at Merchant, even though Merchant was terrible through the entire undercard. I liked it mostly because I was yelling at Merchant all throughout the undercard fights. However I do think that FMJ went overboard on his rant.
"The bell that tolls for all in boxing belongs to a cash register."
-Bob Verdi
Floyd seems to be overboard a lot these days. The picture of him ‘throttling’ Ortiz was pretty nasty. I reckon he’s losing the plot.
I think so too. Have for awhile. My guess is that the mess with his kids involved is. . .not something he can control, that is, you can be sure Social Services got involved, it takes them years to close cases, and the whole time they are involved, Floyd is not telling them what to do or when and how he’ll see his kids, they are telling him. And he can’t like it, nobody would, and for a control freak like him it must be almost unbearable. Much more than any of his other legal difficulties I think that has to just make him nuts. It’s the fight he can’t win, at least not on his terms. And I think he wants his kids.
There is no safety in numbers, or in anything else--James Thurber, 1939
I can understand him wanting his kids, but as you said, he doesn’t call the shots on this one.
Plus I get the feeling he ain’t the type of person who likes being told what he can and can’t do. I think we’re seeing the signs of frustration/exasperation. Especially recently when he’s been in the spotlight more than normal. I suppose you have to respect the way he still does the job in the ring.
my thoughts
1. I dont get why people are glossing over or trying to white wash the headbutt as just a dumb foul or not a big deal. It could have easily cut mayweather worse, knocked him out, etc. A lunging headbutt like that is not the usual tim bradley leading with my head headbutt. It had more potential for damage.
2. Cortez not looking. Irrelevant. Fight was in play already. What if ortiz was showboating with his handa down and got ko’d? If your hands are down to showboat or complain to the ref or any reason at all other then being hurt, its not the refs job to keep you from being hit. They dont say protect yourself at all times cause it sounds cool.
3. Merchant mayweather. Mayweathers blowup was just a product of shit he’s kept bottled inside. Merchant did nothing in particular this time to really piss off floyd but it was bound to bubble up at some point. Larry telling him he was gonna kick his ass was hilarious.
4. As a boxing fan i would have liked to see mayweather touch gloves and let ortiz get in position to fight. But i also understand how one might let their anger get the best of them after someone headbutts you. But hey, you guys have mastered the fine art of anger management. Nothing would make you react like mayweather did….
by erod on Sep 18, 2011 6:15 PM EDT via iPhone app reply actions
Ortiz got what he deserved
Any non bias person would say the same thing
"Winning is Everything"
Failure is not an Option
If you're not first, you're last
Any real non biased person, and you clearly are a FLoyd stan, any person who doesnt have a dog in this fight, like me would say they both were dirty.
Ortiz butt was dirty, it was, and he was penalized for it, it was dirty bitch shit, but what Floyd did was just as dirty if not more dirty and that ended the fight.
Any unbiased person would say they were both bitches and dirty in that fight, Ortiz probably had to be dirty to even stand a chance, Floyd didnt.
Floyd could have gained fans by taking that butt, coming back and winning the right way, on skill, instead he cheap shots him when he isnt ready, it was legal but it was a cheap shot. Floyd stans can say it wasnt, boxing writers can not want to call attention to it and make boxing look bad so they say its ok and it was legal so thats it, but it was a bitch made cheap shot and everyone knows it.
And now Floyd has to man up and fight Manny and stop being scared. Ortiz got what he deserved now its time for Manny to give Floyd what he deserves.
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