This past weekend (Sun., Dec. 30, 2018), Floyd Mayweather Jr. faced Tenshin Nasukawa exhibition match on New Year’s Eve at RIZIN 14, staged inside Saitama Super Arena in Saitama, Japan, with an end result that everyone pretty much expected.
Indeed, Floyd — the undefeated (50-0) professional boxer — who has has faced and defeated the best boxers in the world, knocked out the 20-year old kickboxer in the very first round. And he banked a cool $9 million in the process.
A day after getting smashed in what many are calling nothing more than a glorified squash match, Tenshin took to social media to talk bout the defeat, all wile boldly revealing he underestimated one of the best fighters in the history of combat sports.
I have worked hard with a big dream in the combat world. Karate, Kickboxing, MMA and Boxing. When I first got the offer I took it in a flash. I thought this was an opportunity of a lifetime, and although there were significant differences in accomplishments and weight classes, I felt that I must not run and take on the challenge. The days since the fight was confirmed have been enjoyable but with concerns, and I spent the time thinking about many things. At the end of the day, I got finished, but I have no regrets. I am disappointed at myself since I thought I could have done better. But I will face the facts and will continue to take on any challenge. I learned that I didn’t work hard enough to earn this opportunity, and I will use this defeat to improve myself and move forward this year. Despite all the things that happened leading up to the fight, I came to realize how truly great Mayweather was. I was the one underestimating him. I promise to make it to that level! It may take some time for me to become the man to haul the industry on my shoulders, but please continue to support me! Everybody who work to make this fight happen, thank you very much. Mr. Mayweather, thank you very much.
Underestimating the man who toyed with the likes of Canelo Alvarez, Manny Pacquiao and even Conor McGregor, doesn’t seem like the smartest thing to do. Of course, had it been a full-on kickboxing match, the odds would’ve been heavily the favor of “Teppen.”
I mean, just look at the man’s skills.
For complete RIZIN 14 results and live updates for all the year-end action from Japan, click here