In a stunning interview that’s sent shockwaves through the boxing world, undefeated legend Floyd “Money” Mayweather has shared his take on the heavyweight division’s most anticipated matchups—praising Oleksandr Usyk as a “boxing genius” while issuing a serious warning not to underestimate Joseph Parker.

Known for his often controversial and calculated opinions, Mayweather’s latest comments came during a media appearance ahead of a major fight weekend. While discussing the upcoming clash between Usyk and Tyson Fury—and the broader landscape of the heavyweight scene—Mayweather made it clear: Usyk may be the most intelligent fighter in the game, but Parker has the tools to shake up the entire division.

“Usyk’s a Genius in the Ring”

Mayweather began his remarks by lavishing praise on Oleksandr Usyk, the current unified heavyweight champion, who previously dominated the cruiserweight division before stepping up in weight and dethroning Anthony Joshua.

“Usyk is different,” Mayweather said. “He’s not the biggest or the strongest guy in the division, but he’s a genius. He understands angles, timing, distance—he’s playing chess when others are throwing punches like it’s checkers. His footwork? Elite. His IQ? Off the charts.”

Mayweather, a defensive master himself, expressed deep admiration for Usyk’s ability to neutralize bigger, stronger opponents. “You can’t teach what Usyk has. That’s something you’re born with and polish over time. He breaks opponents down mentally before he even hits them.”

“But Don’t Sleep on Parker!”

However, the real shocker came when Mayweather shifted gears to talk about New Zealand’s Joseph Parker—the former WBO heavyweight champion who’s been flying under the radar in recent years. Many fans and analysts have overlooked Parker in favor of bigger names like Joshua, Wilder, and Fury, but Mayweather says that’s a big mistake.

“Parker’s dangerous,” he warned. “He’s not the loudest guy, and maybe that’s why people sleep on him. But the man’s fast, powerful, and experienced. He’s been in with the best, and he’s getting better. You put him in the right fight, with the right mindset—and I’m telling you—he could shock the whole damn world.”

Mayweather didn’t specify which fight he believed Parker could win, but his tone suggested that he sees the Kiwi contender as a legitimate threat to the top names in the division, including Usyk, Fury, and Wilder.

A Surprising Pick from “Money” Mayweather

For many fans, this prediction comes as a surprise. Floyd Mayweather is famously calculated in his picks and rarely goes against popular consensus unless he sees something others don’t. While Usyk remains a favorite among purists for his technical brilliance, Parker is often considered just outside the “Big Four” heavyweights.

So why is Mayweather backing Parker?

“He’s got nothing to lose,” Floyd explained. “And sometimes, that’s when a fighter is most dangerous. When the spotlight’s not on you, when the pressure’s not on your shoulders—that’s when you fight free. Parker’s got that energy. I’ve seen it before. He’s calm now, but if he smells blood, he’ll explode.”

Fan Reactions: Shock and Intrigue

As clips from the interview spread across social media, fans were quick to react. Many were stunned by Mayweather’s unexpected endorsement.

“Floyd saying Parker could shock the world? That’s huge. He sees something we don’t,” one user tweeted.

Another wrote, “Usyk’s definitely the better boxer, but if Mayweather’s talking up Parker, maybe we’ve all overlooked him.”

Even Parker himself seemed caught off guard by the compliment. He reposted a clip of Mayweather’s remarks on Instagram with the caption, “Respect 🙌. Ready to prove it in the ring.”

What’s Next for Parker?

Joseph Parker has been slowly rebuilding his career since his decision loss to Dillian Whyte in 2018. He’s racked up several impressive wins and looked sharp in recent bouts under new trainer Andy Lee. If he secures a shot at one of the heavyweight elites soon, Mayweather’s comments could become prophetic.

As for Usyk, he’s gearing up for a monumental clash with Tyson Fury to crown the undisputed heavyweight champion. The boxing world is watching closely, but Mayweather’s unexpected prediction has now added a whole new layer of intrigue to the division.

Whether he’s right or not, one thing is certain: when Floyd Mayweather speaks, the combat sports world listens.