Julio Cesar Chavez is considered by many experts to be the greatest boxer in the history of Mexico. Recognized during his professional years (1980-2005) for his powerful punches, especially his famous liver shot, and his resilience in the ring, the native of Sonora made his mark in the sport by winning three world titles in different weight classes: super featherweight, lightweight, and super lightweight.
However, the “Cesar” of boxing seems to have some unfinished business in his career. At least, that’s what he hinted at when asked in a 2022 interview with ESPN about which opponent he would have liked to face at his peak. His answer was clear: Floyd Mayweather.
Without hesitation, the 62-year-old Chavez stated that he would have defeated the American, who retired undefeated with 50 wins, in the super lightweight category. “I would have beaten him at 140 pounds, I would have run over him.He fought someone similar to me, but with all due respect, he wasn’t Julio César Chávez,” he said.
Chavez discusses his potential victory
It’s worth noting that Chavez was referring to the 2002 bout between Floyd Mayweather and Jose Luis Castillo, which took place in Sonora, where the WBC and The Ring lightweight titles were on the line. The fight ended with Mayweather winning by unanimous decision.
Floyd Mayweather Jr. looks on while taking on Marcos Maidana during their WBC/WBA welterweight title fight at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on September 13, 2014 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
“I think I would have beaten him, probably by unanimous decision,” concluded Julio Cesar Chavez, who retired from professional boxing in 2005 with a record of 107 wins (87 by knockout), six losses, and two draws.
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As for Mayweather, he conquered world titles in five different weight classes: super featherweight, lightweight, super lightweight, welterweight, and super welterweight. Additionally, he amassed a vast fortune, which, according to data from Sportico, reached an astounding $1.52 billion, making him the 10th highest-earning athlete in history.
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