SUNRISE, FL. – April 27, 2023 – Undefeated boxing Hall of Famer Floyd “Money” Mayweather will step into the ring on Sunday, June 11 for his latest exhibition showdown, as part of a star-studded night featuring musical performances and more.
Mayweather will take on professional fighter John Gotti III, the grandson of famous gangster John Gotti, headlining a Zeus Network Pay-Per-View on Sunday, June 11 from FLA Live Arena in Sunrise, Florida in an event dedicated to the loving memory of Marikit “Kitchie” Laurico, Mayweather’s longtime assistant who passed away suddenly in April.
For the event, Mayweather will partner with renowned director and producer Deon Taylor, CEO of Hidden Empire Film Group, to proudly present “LAST NAMES MATTER”, a unique crossover extravaganza.
In addition to Mayweather’s exhibition, the event will feature performances from superstar recording artist Ozuna and more. Ozuna has won multiple Latin Grammy Awards and Billboard Music Awards, in addition to his 2018 collaboration with DJ Snake, Cardi B and Selena Gomez on “Taki Taki” that went quadruple platinum.
Tickets for the live event will go on sale Friday, May 5, with more information to follow.
After a legendary career that saw him compile a perfect 50-0 record while winning 12 world titles across five weight classes, Mayweather has gone around the world fighting in exhibitions and spreading the positive messages gleaned from the sport. Mayweather’s exhibition tour has seen him compete in electrifying contests in Dubai, Japan, and the U.K., with him now returning to South Florida after previously squaring off against social media superstar Logan Paul in 2021 in Miami, as he continues delivering memorable action in his signature “Money” Mayweather style.
“I’m all about bringing the biggest and best events to the people, and Sunday, June 11 is going to be like nothing else you’ve seen in the sports and entertainment world,” said Mayweather. “This is all about combining the entertainment of top-flight musical performances with top-flight skills in the ring. I love the fans in South Florida and I know they’re going to appreciate this premier event we’re going to bring to them.”
Gotti III has moved beyond the shadow of his famous last name to put together an impressive resume as both a professional mixed martial artist and a professional boxer. Fighting out of Oyster Bay, New York, Gotti III began his pro MMA career in 2017, racking up a 5-1 record competing on CES MMA shows. He officially made his transition into pro boxing in October 2022, winning a unanimous decision over Albert Tulley. He followed that up with a first round KO over Alex Citrowske in his last fight this January. Now he will look to show off his skills on the biggest stage of his career so far, against the all-time great Mayweather.
“I grew up idolizing Floyd and I’m honored to have this chance to step into the ring against him,” said Gotti. “He’s one of the greatest boxers of all time and he’s the reason I got into the fight game. But on June 11, I’m gonna punish him.”
The Founding CEO of Hidden Empire Film Group, Chicago native Deon Taylor is a world-renowned film director, producer and screenwriter responsible for such works as Dead Tone, The Hustle, Nite Tales, Chain Letter, Supremacy and Meet the Blacks
Known for his creative genius, Taylor has worked with several of Hollywood’s biggest names and most respected production companies to write, produce or direct many well-known works in black popular culture. He is also the visionary behind Mayweather’s “The GOAT” docuseries.
“Floyd has simply become the definition of iconic,” said Taylor. “His passion and genius in the ring and outside of the ring is beyond measure. I am personally blessed and honored to stand with him and tell his amazing story to the world. We cannot wait to see him in the ring again in Miami and understanding that some of the proceeds will be given to at risk youth just furthers Floyd’s brilliance and heart.”
“It’s great to be bringing another huge night to the fans in Florida,” said James McNair, CEO of High Rollers, producers of the event. “We’re excited to be back and working with the Gotti family this time for this exciting fight. It’s also our second time around with the Zeus Network and we’re thrilled to have them be a part of this event.”
“The Zeus Network is a trailblazing leader in streaming media, and we are excited to partner with one of the greatest athletes of all time, Floyd Mayweather, on his next exhibition fight,” said Lemuel Plummer, CEO of Zeus Network. We are honored to share his craft with the world exclusively via our platform.”