By Mark Vester
Floyd Mayweather Jr.'s recent run of negative attention has caused concern among those who know him best. Last week Mayweather's streaming video, which featured a profane attack on Manny Pacquiao, caused a firestorm of negative press. A week later, Mayweather is arrested in Las Vegas for grand theft larceny in connection with a claim of domestic assault by the mother of his children.
HBO Sports President Ross Greenburg told the Los Angeles Times that Mayweather needs to change his life around because the general boxing public is turning against him.
"He's got to get his life in order," Greenburg said. "This gives me pause. I've known Floyd for many years, and we've showcased him several times on [HBO's reality series] "24/7," with people engaged by his personality. Now people are repelled by his personality. I hope he can learn from these terrible mistakes. Someone has to do an intervention with him."
Golden Boy Promotions CEO Richard Schaefer agrees with Greenburg's views, telling the paper that Mayweather should turn his life around by returning to the ring because the out-of-boxing temptations are getting the best of him at the moment.
"The spotlight is a glorious light at times, but it can be a hard light too," Schaefer said. For many, their athletic environment is a kingdom, a real place to find refuge from outside influences -- their safe haven. The same is true for Floyd. He's a gym rat. Maybe he needs to get back in there and fight again so we can all enjoy his amazing talents."
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