Raekwon is a huge follower of boxing. And like every other boxing fan, the Wu-Tang general has his own thoughts on who would come out on top if the sport’s biggest fight, Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquiao, is ever made.
Raekwon views both men as great fighters, but notes an old friendship with Mayweather as the main reason he would root for a Floyd victory. In addition, Rae believes Mayweather being naturally bigger and more technically skilled would be a significant factor.
“I’m riding with Floyd. He’s the Muhammad Ali of today,” Raekwon explained. “It’s crazy because me and Floyd developed a relationship when he first came into the business. So I’m loyal to that man as far as wanting him to win. I know he talks crazy, but that’s just a part of being young. When you achieve those kind of successes, you tend to act like that. But as far as skill is concerned, I believe he can win by fighting tall.”
But Raekwon does not foresee an easy fight for Mayweather. In fact, he sees the undefeated welterweight having to unleash his entire arsenal to earn Pacquiao’s respect and survive the superfight.
“I like the Pacquiao kid because he’s a rebel,” Rae stated. “I think he’s a warrior. Pacquiao is just a soldier. You really would have to f### him up to make him respect you. It’s going to be a good one.”
Floyd Mayweeather and Manny Pacquiao failed twice to come to terms for a fight in 2010. In February, the fight fell apart due to Pacquiao refusing to adhere to Mayweather’s demand for Olympic style drug testing. In July, talks collapsed after Mayweather proclaimed he was going on “vacation” for the rest of the year.
Manny Pacquaio faces Antonio Margarito next month in Dallas. Should Pacquiao emerge victorious, he is expected to attempt a third negotiation with Floyd Mayweather for 2011.
Raekwon is working on fifth solo LP, Shaolin vs. Wu Tang. The album will feature guest spots from Black Thought, Raheem DeVaughn, Method Man, GZA, Inspectah Deck and Ghostface Killah.