Exclusive: Floyd Mayweather Says He’s “Proud” of New Generation of Boxers as He Prepares to Fight Grandson of Notorious Gangster in Upcoming Exhibition [Video]

It looks like Floyd Mayweather is coming out of retirement… again.

On Thursday, the Hall of Famer held a press conference to announce his latest exhibition fight against professional boxer and mixed martial artist John Gotti III — the grandson of notorious gangster John Gotti.

Although Mayweather retired from boxing in 2017, he continues to appear in fights that don’t count towards his career record.

At Thursday’s press conference, the undefeated legend told Baller Alert how proud he is to be passing the baton to the younger generation of boxers.

“These younger boxers are amazing. I’m proud of these young guys,” he said. “I’m happy I could hand the baton to so many younger fighters and bring money to the smaller classes. There’s so much talent in the sport of boxing. I’m proud of them all.”

Mayweather has been competing at the highest level for 27 years, unbeaten in 50 bouts.

Since coming in and out of retirement, he’s taken a liking to undefeated three-division champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis. Mayweather has been mentoring Davis since the start of his professional career in 2013. In fact, Tank won the world title while working with Mayweather.

Mentorship is a two-way straight, and although Mayweather is a veteran in the boxing world, he shared what he’s learned from “Tank.”

“He’s been through a lot. So I’m extremely proud to see how far he’s come.”

The 46-year-old applauded Davis for always being “vocal” and transparent on social media and knowing how to “execute their game plans.”

During the press conference, Gotti shared that he’s been a fan of Mayweather since he was a child but is ready to take him on in the ring this summer.

“Make no mistake, June 11; I’m bringing bad intentions to that man. And I don’t care if it’s an exhibition or not, you started to fight me. It’s no quarter. So it’s kill or be killed,” he said.

John Gotti III on fighting Floyd Mayweather in June “killed or be killed” pic.twitter.com/4mGQV0OSUP

— Baller Alert 🚨 (@balleralert) April 27, 2023

The showdown will headline “LAST NAMES MATTER” on Sunday, June 11, from FLA Live Arena in Sunrise, Florida. The fight will also feature performances from music superstars Ozuna, Romeo Santos, and more.

The event is dedicated to the loving memory of Marikit “Kitchie” Laurico, Mayweather’s longtime assistant, who passed away suddenly in April.