Floyd Mayweather’s Farewell Message to Leonard Ellerbe Sets the Internet Ablaze

He was in Floyd Mayweather Jr.‘s corner in the initial years as the American boxer surged through the ranks. Many joined the Mayweather crew and left it, but he was a constant presence. But not more. After 25+ years of loyal service, Leonard Ellerbe has decided to split with ‘Pretty Boy,’ who put him into a businessman’s suit from a cornerman’s tracksuit. Fans found it hard to digest and have flaunted theories, as they debated the Mayweather Promotion’s former CEO’s legacy.

Ellerbe, 59, took the reign of Mayweather Promotions for almost a decade, making all the business arrangements, first of Mayweather Jr. when he was active, and recently, the fighter under the stable. The American businessman handled negotiations and even steered the press conferences. But he will be a notable absence. Why did he leave? Mayweather Jr., 47, explained in a heartfelt post on his Instagram handle.

Changing priorities after a successful tenure

Mayweather Jr., at 50-0, lauded Ellerbe’s leadership and dedication and detailed that the former Mayweather Promotion lynchpin wanted to spend some time with his family and loved ones. He wrote, “After years of hard work and dedication, Leonard has made the heartfelt decision to step down as CEO to spend more time with his family and loved ones.”

Following this, the Michigan native also presented the man set to replace Ellerbe. Richard Schaefer will step into the CEO’s shoes and will call the shots now. In addition, Mayweather Promotions will open an HQ in Las Vegas to expand its operations. However, fans couldn’t look past the fact that Ellerbe wouldn’t be able to oversee it.

Fans insinuate Ellerbe and ‘Tank’ are working together

A fan called it a “big loss” for the Mayweather Promotions. The Northeast DC native made crucial business decisions and held the business part of things when Mayweather Jr. pulled punches in the ring. Later, he would sign promising fighters, and enlarge the stable. With him out of the promotion, the fan believed he could start a rival promotion company after putting in his expertise.

A user lauded the choice of Richard Schaefer, a Swiss financial expert, who also has an understanding of boxing finances. Schaefer even served as Oscar De La Hoya‘s Golden Boy Promotions’ CEO for two years and now runs a promotion company of his own. They declared, “Getting Richard Schaefer is a big time move.”

Someone threw shade at Mayweather Jr., referencing his recent rumors of getting stuck in Dubai over non-payment. Interestingly, it was Gervonta Davis who floated these claims. They wondered, “Is Floyd still stuck in Dubai?”

A comment alluded to Ellerbe’s fondness of ‘Tank’. Notably, Davis, 29, fought under Mayweather Promotion’s banner for some time before jumping ship. And the rumors suggested that the two were going to work together now. The comment read, “He works for @Gervontaa_ now.”

Similarly, another fan called Ellerbe as Davis’ “hype man”. Ellerbe, in the past, has stood behind Davis, at 29-0, and has publicly praised his boxing acumen. However, they also believed the non-promotion of the fight, which angered Davis, was a job done well by Ellerbe. They announced, “Tank’s personal hype man. He did a great job not selling the Frank Martin fight lol.”

Lastly, a comment, again shedding light on Ellerbe’s relationship with Davis, read, “Bro ride or die for tank eh.” However, Mayweather Jr. and Davis have been at loggerheads recently.

What do you make of this decision by Floyd Mayweather Jr.? Do you believe Richard Schaefer is the right man for the job? Let us know in the comments below.