Mayweather, who hung up his gloves in 2017 after a 21-year career, knows a thing or two about boxing greatness. He won world titles in five weight classes and beat big names like Canelo Alvarez, Oscar De La Hoya, and Manny Pacquiao. His perfect 50-0 record includes a final victory over MMA star Conor McGregor.
When asked about the best heavyweight ever, Mayweather didn't hesitate. He told Fat Joe:
"If we gonna go heavyweights, I'm gonna be honest I gotta go Larry Holmes. Do you want me to give you the breakdown? Cause Larry Holmes beat everybody in his era. When he got beat by Mike Tyson, he got beat by a young, hungry champion and he came out of years retirement."
Mayweather praised Holmes, known as "The Easton Assassin," for his basic fundamentals and strong jab. He ruled as world heavyweight champion from 1978 to 1985, taking down legends like Muhammad Ali, Earnie Shavers, and Trevor Berbick.
But it wasn't just Holmes' in-ring skills that impressed Mayweather. He pointed out that Holmes made smart investments and is still living a great life. Mayweather also admired Holmes' longevity, noting how he came back to beat younger fighters like Ray Mercer after his initial retirement.
This choice might raise some eyebrows, but it shows the respect Mayweather has for fighters who can adapt and succeed throughout their careers. It's a quality he shares with Holmes, having remained at the top of his game for over two decades.