By Luis Sandoval
The overall sentiment around the boxing community was that episode 2 of Mayweather-Ortiz 24/7 didn’t live up to expectations. It was a sentiment also expressed by Floyd Mayweather himself as he not only expressed his displeasure with the episode, but also went as far as to suggest HBO needed a new editor for the show. Whether HBO heard Floyd or not, the episode was more improved than what we had seen the previous week.
While most of us enjoyed our day off on Labor Day, Floyd Mayweather treated it like any other day as he showed up for work at his gym. Floyd once again reminds us why his work ethic is second to none as he goes through his vigorous workout regimen. One of Floyd’s signature routines is the mitt work he does with his uncle and trainer Roger Mayweather. A flawless display of technique, coordination and reflexes, which fighter and trainer perfected over the years.
But Floyd also takes time to remind us how he’s grown tiresome of Victor’s background being a constant focal point on the show. He also takes more shots at Ortiz's promoter, Oscar De La Hoya, as he refers to him as a “hoe” and brings up his fishnets from those infamous 2007 photos. The verbal insults are an echo of the ones he expressed last week when he questioned on his twitter how Victor could view De La Hoya as a god.
It’s not all work with Floyd as the evening is a more relaxed setting as his friends and family gather for a holiday BBQ thrown in his honor. For once, boxing is the furthest thing from Floyd’s mind as he enjoys some off-time with his team.
Back in Ventura, Victor Ortiz attends a BBQ of his own at a Summer End Block party where he meets and greets his fans. His interactions with his fans doesn’t stop there as the very next day, Victor plays the celebrity ambassador for the Big Brothers Big Sisters youth organization.
Ortiz has lunch with kids from the program as he engages in casual conversation but also gives them a bit of advice.
“That’s one thing. Don’t ever stop believing in yourself. People are always going to try and say that you can or you can’t, you know? Who cares, let them” says Ortiz. It’s a mind state he’s had since this fight was announced and one he’ll carry with him into the ring.
The real work gets started moments later as his open media workout begins. It’s the most media attention Ortiz has ever received for a fight but he and trainer Danny Garcia both seem unaffected by it all. It’s business as usual and their focus is on training hard and getting ready for September 17th.
Back in Las Vegas, its Mayweather’s turn to put on a show for the press as he opens his gym doors for his media day. Covered by a sea of reporters, Floyd reminds everyone that Ortiz isn’t the only one with a harsh upbringing.
“I’ve lived a very, very rough life. They make it seem like I just woke up and was a multi-millionaire” declares Mayweather.
Any memories of that once rough life are quickly forgotten as we follow Floyd making the purchase of a new Rolls Royce luxury car. It is discovered that Floyd own 14 luxury cars valued at over 4 million dollars. His newest purchase is a trade with the difference being paid in a way best said by Randy Moss; “Straight cash homie”.
The night ends with a private concert put on by Mayweather friend and R&B singer Ray J. But for Danny Garcia, his form of entertainment is studying film on Floyd in preparation for the fight. Today Garcia and his two sons watch Floyd’s 2007 bout with Ricky Hatton. Surprisingly, it’s not Floyd’s hand speed or defense that’s the concern; it’s his elbows. They analyze and feel Floyd uses his elbows in fights and even go as far as to call Mayweather “dirty”.
For the first time in the series we get to see some sparring, as Victor Ortiz goes through a 3 man rotation of fighters there to mimic Floyd’s style. They include Karl Dargan, Toney Flores and former world champion Steve Forbes.
It’s a hard and intense day of sparring as at the end of 10 rounds, Ortiz’s team is very pleased with his progression and confident the rounds Victor is on his way to beating Mayweather.
Back at casa Mayweather, its 2:30am as Floyd gets on a Skype conference call with US Troops stationed in Afghanistan. Floyd interacts with the troops and engages in a Q&A session with them. One of the questions asked is what keeps Floyd motivated to which Floyd’s response is flashing a stack of money.
The call soon turns into a personal tour of Mayweather’s 22,000 square foot home. Even with the connection on his laptop going out a few times, it doesn’t deter Floyd from taking them into every room of his house. A 2 hour Skype session with the troops ends with a final thank you from Floyd and a dedication of the fight to them.
The episode winds down as we see both fighters training hard and both promising to be victorious. While Victor vows to keep his WBC title, Floyd claims to be the WBC: Worlds Best Champion.
It was good to get some different angles from both fighters. Ortiz has a good back story, however, anything gets dull if it continues to be rehashed over and over. 24/7 is meant to give us a glimpse not only into the fighter’s camp, but their lives. Sometimes HBO might play too much on the human aspect, but I also think it’s necessary to an extent. You just have to present it in the proper doses.
Grade: 4/5
You can email me at luis.sandoval80@yahoo.com or follow me on Twitter @truewest007.