6. Floyd Mayweather
It’s hard to argue against perfection, but supremely talented Mayweather is a reluctant addition to the list solely because of his boorish, at times obnoxious, behaviour outside the ring.
Mayweather has a history of violence towards women – and the criminal record to prove it – and has contemptuously burned 100 dollar bills in public. Not that Mayweather cares what the public think as long as the cash rolls in – and plenty of cash has rolled in.
The boorish antics detract from a boxer who would’ve been considered a genius in any era.
The Moneyman is a defensive maestro, but the constant switch in weight classes to accommodate his ego and lust for mega paydays has clouded Mayweather’s worth as a welterweight.
He’s here because of his superfight win over Manny Pacquiao, but there are also worthy world 10st 7lbs wins over Ricky Hatton, Zab Judah and Marcos Maidana.
Mayweather is 48-0 and unmarked – a testament to his ability.
Would he have beaten Ross, the fighter above him? Probably, but Barney was a better human being with a better story to tell. Historically, that counts.
