Floyd Mayweather wept as he gave away his Hall of Fame Ring at the International Boxing ceremony in Canastota, New York.
Inducted on his first ballot, the whole event clearly moved the five-weight world champion as he made a speech confirming his prize would go to his father – Floyd Mayweather Sr.
Fighting tears before letting it out for a full two minutes, the “Money” man was genuinely thankful for the honor.
“I did a lot in my career, but this is by far the best,” said Mayweather. “I want to thank the International Boxing Hall of Fame for giving me this.
“This right here is going to my dad because he deserves it. Bernard Hopkins said it best, `You’ve got to earn it.’ – My dad earned this ring.
“I want to say thank you to everybody for your support. I want to tell all the fighters, thank you, you guys are remarkable. There wouldn’t be no me without you guys.
“I don’t really know what to say. I told myself I wouldn’t cry, but this was something beautiful. This is one of the best days of my life.”
FLOYD MAYWEATHER IBHOF
On his father, Mayweather added: “I love my dad because, without him, this wouldn’t be possible.
“He’s the best trainer ever. There will never be another trainer that’s better than my dad.”
On his transition to becoming the best defensive fighter of all time, Mayweather concluded: “I said, ‘You know what? I’m going to take less punishment.’
“I want to retire on my own terms, and I want to make smart investments, so I’m able to live a comfortable life once my career is over.”
Mayweather took comfort from Muhammad Ali’s daughter Laila Ali, a Hall of Famer herself.
Ali passed Floyd a handkerchief as tears rolled down his face at the honor.
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