For an exhibition match, it produced one of the most dramatic endings—if there were any, as some of the fans might wonder. Following his not-so-much-to-speak-about fight against reality television star Aaron Chalmers, Floyd Mayweather Jr. zeroed in on John Gotti III on June 11 last year. The eight-round context in Florida might have ended like most exhibitions. But for the trash talks the two exchanged, it soon snowballed into a major in-ring and arena brawl.

Days after the big fracas, thankfully, tempers cooled and clear heads prevailed. Talks for a rematch between Mayweather Jr. and Gotti III have been on and off since last year. Finally, the official announcement came in June. The duo will once again get back in the ring on August 24 at the Arena CDM in Mexico City. Speaking with TMZ, John Gotti III shared some details about the upcoming clash.

Fighting for Legacy: John Gotti III

Gotti II spoke about his training. He revealed how the time since the last fight with Floyd Mayweather Jr. passed by. It gave him that much-needed space to contemplate and think about his approach if ever the rematch came up. He also revealed how he felt and what all went through his mind when he entered the ring opposite a living legend like Mayweather Jr.

As the show neared its end, the reporter asked, “I know your grandfather could appreciate a big show. What do you think he would have said about his grandson in there fighting against Floyd Mayweather?” As most fans might be aware, John Gotti III’s grandfather was the late John Gotti, once the head of the New York-based Gambino crime family.

According to the mixed martial artist turned boxer, his grandfather would have rather found the duel amusing. “He would’ve wanted to rip Floyd’s head off, you know, when all that stuff’s going down,” added the Oyster Bay resident. However, in the end, John Gotti would have nothing but admiration for his grandson’s determination and fighting spirit.

The former head of the Gambino family would have understood. Whatever his grandson had been doing, it was to defend and honor their name. “I’m fighting to get respect for my name and make a positive, you know, impact on my family, so I’m sure he could appreciate that,” Gotti III concluded.

To Defeat the Undefeated

As the interview began, John Gotti II revealed that he was wrapping up his training camp and moving on to some final sparring sessions. Next week, he and his team planned to move to Mexico City. He reflected on his last June bout with ‘The Money’. He shared how it was the biggest fight of his fledgling boxing career, which began barely two years ago. The former world champion’s tactics to taunt him seemingly worked, pushing him to his limits. But this time, Gotti III felt more prepared. He understands what to expect from a masterful boxer like Mayweather Jr.

Expressing confidence, John Gotti III also spoke about his motivation level and chances of winning the bout. He believes that he has improved significantly since their last meeting and feels mentally stronger. Whether a professional or exhibition fight, it will be a first in Mexico City for both Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Gotti III. Fans will be watching closely to see whether Gotti III can become the first man to turn the tables on a never-beaten boxing legend in a new location.

What is your take on the Mayweather Gotti III rematch? Will it end differently this time?