In a recent interview with Ben Thompson from Fight Hype, Floyd Mayweather did not hesitate to assert himself as the greatest counterpuncher of all time, while also expressing critical views towards Manny Pacquiao. Following Pacquiao’s narrow victory over Juan Manuel Marquez, many anticipated Mayweather would be a formidable opponent if the two stars finally clashed. However, Pacquiao is set for a fourth bout with Marquez, while Mayweather will be seeking another contender for his May 5, 2012, date at the MGM Grand.

Mayweather was outspoken in his criticism of Pacquiao, questioning his rise to the top and even hinting at the use of performance-enhancing drugs. He also voiced frustration with how some fighters can rise to prominence without a significant amateur background.

Mayweather emphasized, “When Mayweather was dominating the sport, Marquez was dominating as well. Marquez didn’t just come out of nowhere. Most of the greats had gone to the Olympics, including American fighters and fighters from other countries… All these guys were in the Olympics, and it was clear from the start that they were special.”

Meanwhile, although he did not explicitly say so, Mayweather’s final remarks still insinuated that Pacquiao might be using banned substances. This will surely stir controversy in the boxing world, especially since many top fighters have not competed in the Olympics or had notable amateur careers.

Whether you like him or not, it’s undeniable that Mayweather always knows how to keep the public’s attention. In addition to criticizing other fighters, Mayweather did not shy away from critiquing HBO’s commentators and even went as far as calling Emanuel Steward an “Uncle Tom.”

The potential matchup between Mayweather and a worthy opponent remains a big question, but clearly, a Mayweather-Pacquiao fight would be an unmissable event.