The fight between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao, often called the “Fight of the Century,” had been a highly anticipated event for years, with fans and analysts eager to see the two boxing greats face off at the height of their careers in the late 2000s. However, numerous negotiation hurdles delayed the bout until May 2, 2015, by which time both fighters were past their primes—Mayweather was 38, and Pacquiao was 36.

Despite their advanced ages, the fight attracted enormous attention, breaking pay-per-view records and grossing over $600 million. Mayweather won the match by unanimous decision, securing his legacy with a then-record of 48-0, which he later extended to 50-0.

In a recent interview, Mayweather admitted to deliberately waiting 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 stated. “I knew if I waited, Pacquiao would slow down a bit, and that would work to my advantage.”

This admission has reignited debates about the fight’s timing and the strategies of both camps. For years, there had been speculation and accusations that Mayweather was avoiding Pacquiao during his prime, despite public statements from both fighters expressing their willingness to fight each other.

Reactions to Mayweather’s confession have been mixed. Pacquiao’s team 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 voiced their opinions. Some see Mayweather’s strategy as a savvy move within the sport’s strategic framework, while others believe it undermines the spirit of fair competition. Prominent boxing commentator Max Kellerman remarked, “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 highlights the delicate balance between strategy and sportsmanship in boxing. While psychological tactics and strategic planning are integral to the sport, there is an expectation that champions will face their rivals at their peak to ensure a fair contest.

Mayweather’s undefeated record and his recognition as one of the greatest defensive fighters in history are undisputed. However, this revelation may prompt some to reconsider the context of his victories and the extent he went to maintain his perfect record.

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

For Manny Pacquiao, who has retired from professional boxing to focus on his political career in the Philippines, Mayweather’s confession might offer a bittersweet form of validation. Despite the timing of their fight, Pacquiao’s impact on the sport and his status as a global icon remain unchallenged.

Floyd Mayweather Jr.’s revelation that he waited for Manny Pacquiao to age before their 2015 bout is a startling confession that has rocked the boxing world. While it underscores the strategic elements inherent in boxing, it also raises ethical questions about sportsmanship and fair play. As fans and analysts digest this revelation, the legacies of both fighters will continue to be hotly debated.