Happy Fathers Day to all the pops out there. I thought it'd be a good time to pay ode to one of the best father/son coaching combinations out there. Only in boxing can a dad have such an integral role in their children's athletic rise. The duality between Floyd Sr. and Floyd Jr. can be outright hilarious at times, but it can also be immensely motivating and emotional when you can see Floyd taking in the brilliant knowledge being passed down.
Although Floyd was taught by his uncle Roger for most of his career, Floyd Sr. had become a staple in his son's corner for the latter end. Floyd Sr. was actually absent for much of his son's life, but there was obvious healing and contemplation which occurred since they have a (better than) working relationship. There were instances from nearly half a decade ago of both Floyds going at it with words and almost violence, but that was obvious strain from the build up of both men almost feeling abandoned by each other.
Floyd Jr. must have done a lot of reconciliation to allow his father back into his life, and I truly admire the bond they have accrued the ups and downs of not only their relationship, but through the tough tasks associated with being a world class boxer. Floyd has maintained an image of being #1 his entire career, and although one may not be a fan of his antics, one must always respect the skills he displayed in the ring. A vast array of technique and intellect are what Floyd always brought to the table, and he was almost a combination of the offense and defense his father and uncle's portrayed in the ring.
Roger and Jeff Mayweather were more defensive fighters in their tenure, and the 'Joy' (Floyd Sr.) was actually a more offensive minded pugilist. The combination of all those men experience and ring time went into the birthing of the best fighter of this generation. Floyd is an accumulation of everything important and wonderful in boxing; Happy Fathers Day to Floyd Sr. and his son, they helped to make the modern era of boxing what it is.
Comments