The New Year eve’s special bout between the world champion boxer Floyd Mayweather and the Japanese kickboxer Tenshin Nasukawa ended with Mayweather’s win as he knocked out Nasukawa three times in the first round in Tokyo.
Boxing – Floyd Mayweather v Tenshin Nasukawa – Saitama Super Arena, Tokyo, Japan – December 31, 2018 Floyd Mayweather knocks down Tenshin Nasukawa in the first round REUTERS/Issei Kato
Their bout was not an official fight but was instead a friendly exhibition match for the entertainment purposes arranged by the Japanese MMA company RIZIN.
The undefeated America boxer outclassed Nasukawa in the match held in Saitama, Japan early on as he opened with a body shot followed by two flush blows to the head as the Japanese corner threw their towel.
The initial plan was for a three minute three rounds fight between Mayweather and Nasukawa. However, the five-weight world champion ended the match in just a single round and reportedly made 9 million dollars off of it.
This ruthless two minutes win does not go on any of the fighter’s professional record. This, however, was Mayweather’s first return to a boxing ring for a bought since his 20-17’s fight against the UFC fighter Conor McGregor.
Mayweather after the fight said to the Nasukawa who had tears in his eyes, “I want to say thank you. It was about entertainment and we had fun.”
Further talking about the fight, Mayweather said, “I want to thank God for this event and this turn out. Tokyo, I just want to say thank you. We are the past, the present, and future of the sports entertainment. You guys have been amazing. Thank You for tonight.”
Mayweather, who has previously won all of his 50 professional fights, when asked about his “retirement status” insisted that he is still retired.
He said, “Tenshin hold your head high. I want the fans to support him. He is a great guy and great fighter and a great champion.”
The fight was not monitored by any judges. Only a technical knockout or a knockout was considered a victory for his bout. However, there was only one penalty for Nasukawa for a fine of 5 million dollars if he used his kicks against Mayweather.
As for Manny Pacquiao, the former rival of Mayweather was less than impressed by Mayweather’s win and tweeted,
“Here is an early New Year’s resolution. To continue to fight only experienced opponents who are my size or bigger”.
Related Content
