Many boxing fans who watched Floyd Mayweather battle it out with Marcos Maidana earlier this year believe that it was a very close fight. Fast forward months later, a rematch has been set between the two, and this match is believed to be the one that will prove who really is the better fighter. Then again, it could end the rivalry or be a precursor to a trilogy.
The post press conference after the initial match showed an exchange of words between the two, as shown in the video in USA Today.
Mayweather addressed Maidana and said, "You're a great fighter and very tough competitor. Congratulations on the new baby. She's beautiful. Next time, just don't hit me (below the belt) so much."
Maidana replied, "Next time let me use my gloves."
And then one thing led to another and Maidana was asking for a rematch. He said, "We can take it back down there right now if you want. Put the ring back up. ... It's not a problem. If he feels he won, we can do it again in September."
After that, there were months of speculation about who Mayweather would fight next. Even he wasn't so sure then. And then one day, a named popped out and it was Argentinian fighter Maidana. Since then, Maidana has done his share of promoting, and he's been talking about the last fight and everything else about Mayweather.
"He's not as good as people think," said Maidana in Yahoo Sports. "I was able to pin him to the ropes and land punches, so he's not as difficult or as invincible as people think. He's hittable. You can land on him. I made mistakes. I was a little too anxious. He never hurt me, but he's got a respectable punch. You've got to respect him."
The decision went Mayweather's way, but it was one that left doubts in people's minds. However, boxing experts do say that it was Mayweather's thinking and adjustments that got him the win. He was the more efficient fighter between the two, but Maidana definitely pushed Mayweather to his limits.
Although much money is at stake in this second match, there's another matter that's on the line—Mayweather's reputation. He has an unbeaten streak and he'd certainly want to keep it that way.
Mayweather vs Maidana II will air on Sept. 13 at 8 p.m. ET. The official weigh in took place on Sept. 12, 2:30 p.m. ET.
The fight will take place at 8 p.m. ET on Showtime and will be available to watch online via live stream here.
See the Mayweather vs Maidana 1 full fight video below:
