By Edward Chaykovsky
On September 12th at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, WBC/WBA welterweight champion Floyd Mayweather Jr. (48-0, 26KOs) will step in the ring for what he claims is the last time of his 19-year career.
He says two-time welterweight champion Andre Berto will be the final opponent.
There are many who are doubting Mayweather's words. They believe the fighter will return next May to chase his 50th pro win - which in turn would break the 49-0 record of legendary heavyweight Rocky Marciano.
The fight with Berto will be the final bout of Mayweather's exclusive contract with Showtime/CBS.
There have been industry rumors that CBS/Showtime have attempted to sign Mayweather to a three fight extension - if the boxer decides to continue his career in the future.
Mayweather gave a borderline confirmation of those talks, but continues to stand firm on his planned retirement.
"They say they'll offer me a lot of money" to keep fighting, Mayweather said. "I have a lot of money. I'm OK. ... It's the end of my [Showtime] deal. I'm an old man now. I'm 38."