Victor Ortiz has voiced his frustration over Floyd Mayweather’s inability to secure a comeback fight in 2026, despite his own offer of a free rematch. The former WBC welterweight champion, who lost controversially to Mayweather in 2011, shared his thoughts ahead of his bare-knuckle boxing debut on July 18.
What happened with Floyd Mayweather’s comeback plans?
Mayweather, 49, has seen three potential matchups fall through this year, including a highly anticipated bout against Mike Tyson. Dana White suggested he could help Mayweather last month, but no fights have materialized. Ortiz, now 39, criticized Mayweather’s reluctance to face him again, claiming he would have knocked him out in their rematch.
Why does Victor Ortiz believe Mayweather is avoiding him?
Ortiz accused Mayweather of avoiding a rematch because he knew the outcome would not favor him. The two boxers last fought in 2011, when Mayweather won controversially after Ortiz was caught off guard by a punch during a break. Ortiz said he offered Mayweather a free rematch multiple times, but Mayweather never took him up on it.
What’s next for Floyd Mayweather?
Mayweather’s future in the ring remains uncertain. While the Tyson fight is still a possibility, Ortiz believes Mayweather is too cautious to take on serious challenges. Meanwhile, Ortiz prepares for his bare-knuckle debut against Dominic Salcido at BKB 56 on July 18, 2026.
Mayweather’s last fight was in 2017, when he defeated Conor McGregor. Since then, he has dabbled in exhibition matches but has yet to commit to a full return to professional boxing.