Depending on how you look at it, the 49–0 feat that Floyd Mayweather Jr. has achieved after winning unanimously (and expectedly) against Andre Berto does seem a bit half-cooked.
On one end, there are some who believe that Mayweather weaseled his way to the record by opting to face a less-heralded and unranked fighter in Berto rather than the big names like Amir Khan or even Gennady Golovkin.
Mayweather has, of course, justified his choice despite the fact that people felt that Berto was an obvious walk in the park. Days leading to the fight, the two tried to spur up some animosity for the fight but as everyone knows by now, such never worked.
So with 49–0 in his pocket, his supposed stature as one of the world greats has become a bit tainted. Is Mayweather now ranked alongside boxing great Rocky Marciano?
One person who doesn't seem impressed is the boxing legend's son, Rocky Marciano Jr.
Speaking via USA Today, it seems that Marciano Jr. would have been impressed had the feat been done in the heavyweight division.
"I suppose I would be more impressed," Marciano Jr. told USA TODAY Sports by text message. "I think my father's record is a difficult record to achieve in the heavyweight class. In boxing history we've seen (boxers in) lighter weight classes go deep before losses. The weight matters in my opinion and also in others' opinions."
So depending on how you look at it, is the 49–0 record something to be proud of? Is it a first in the middleweight division?
The answer to that will, of course, vary. Many may see it as an accomplishment for Mayweather who has faced nearly all the big name fighters. Had he selected a credible fighter for his alleged last match, then perhaps all the brouhaha would not be as hard on him right now. In fact, the boxing world might have been led to believe that he is actually and truly retiring.
But as everyone knows, not all people are buying into it and believe that he will fight one more time. Marciano Jr. shares the same belief.
"Waiting to see if Mayweather sticks to his word or goes for 50 before retiring," Rocky Jr. said, adding, "It's difficult to believe this is his last fight."
