Mayweather Vs. Nasukawa: Fight Details & Highlights
Floyd Mayweather's exhibition bout against Japanese kickboxer Tenshin Nasukawa at the RIZIN 14 event in December 2018 was a spectacle that captured global attention.
The Unlikely Matchup
The fight, held in Saitama, Japan, was an exhibition match with a unique set of rules: three rounds, no judges, and if Nasukawa were to knock Mayweather down, the fight would be stopped. This arrangement raised eyebrows and generated considerable buzz due to the size and experience disparity between the two fighters.
The Fight
From the opening bell, Mayweather dominated the smaller Nasukawa, knocking him down three times in the first round. Nasukawa, visibly overwhelmed, couldn't withstand Mayweather's power and precision. The fight was stopped at 2:19 of the first round, with Mayweather declared the winner by TKO.
Highlights
- Mayweather's Dominance: Showcased his superior boxing skills and power.
- Nasukawa's Courage: Despite the outcome, he demonstrated bravery by stepping into the ring with one of boxing's all-time greats.
- Global Attention: The event drew significant viewership and media coverage worldwide.
Aftermath
The exhibition was lucrative for Mayweather, reportedly earning him around $9 million for just a few minutes of work. While some criticized the mismatch, the event highlighted the appeal of crossover fights and the drawing power of Mayweather's name.
The Mayweather vs. Nasukawa exhibition remains a memorable, if controversial, moment in combat sports history.