Money and greatness recognize each other. It sounds like a cliché, but in the world of high-stakes sports and chart-topping rap, it’s basically the law of the land. When you think of Floyd Mayweather, you think of the "Money Team" (TMT), undefeated records, and enough cash to fill a swimming pool. When you think of Young Thug, you think of a boundary-pushing artist who redefined the sound of Atlanta.
But there’s a deeper connection there. It’s not just about two rich guys crossing paths at a Lakers game—though that happened recently at the Crypto.com Arena in late 2025. The history between Young Thug and Floyd Mayweather stretches back over a decade, involving missed business deals, a legendary tribute track, and a mutual respect that has survived legal battles and the passage of time.
The TMT Record Deal That Almost Was
Back in 2016, Floyd Mayweather dropped a bombshell during an interview with Hollywood Unlocked. He claimed that before the world fully understood the genius of Young Thug, the rapper was almost signed to Mayweather's TMT Music Group.
Imagine that for a second.
The most dominant boxer of his generation nearly became the boss of the most influential rapper of the 2010s. Mayweather admitted that while he didn't always understand exactly what Thugger was saying in his tracks—joking that he had to ask Future about the "melody"—he recognized the raw talent.
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"Young Thug was supposed to be my artist first," Floyd said. "Things happen, but..."
He didn't dive into the specifics of why the deal fell through. Usually, in these situations, it's about the paperwork or a better offer from a major label. Thug eventually found his home with 300 Atlanta and his own YSL imprint, but the "what if" remains one of the more fascinating footnotes in hip-hop history. If Thug had signed to TMT, would we have seen him walking Floyd to the ring for the McGregor fight? Probably.
The Song That Solidified the Link
In August 2016, Young Thug released his project No, My Name is Jeffery. Every track was named after one of his idols—Riri, Harambe, Wyclef Jean—and the standout anthem was titled "Floyd Mayweather." This wasn't just a casual name-drop. It was a massive collaboration featuring Travis Scott, Gucci Mane, and a then-emerging Gunna. The song served as a sonic monument to Mayweather’s lifestyle: the luxury, the invincibility, and the "never lose" mentality.
- Release Date: August 26, 2016
- Key Features: Travis Scott, Gucci Mane, Gunna
- Significance: It was the track that introduced Gunna to a mainstream audience.
When the song dropped, social media went wild. People were dissecting the beat, but mostly they were looking for Floyd’s reaction. The champ didn't disappoint. He was seen on video vibing to the music, clearly appreciative of the tribute. In a world where rappers often use athletes' names for "clout," this felt like a genuine salute from one master of his craft to another.
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Courtside Reunion: Late 2025
Fast forward to November 2025. The world is a different place. Young Thug had just navigated one of the most complex and longest-running RICO trials in Georgia's history. After years of legal uncertainty, seeing him back in the public eye was a moment in itself.
Naturally, one of the first high-profile people he was spotted with was Floyd Mayweather.
The two were caught on camera at a Lakers game, catching up like old friends. Thug was there with Mariah the Scientist, and Floyd was doing what Floyd does—being the center of attention in a flashy outfit. There was no awkwardness, no "industry" faking. It was a "nice to see you, champ" moment that showed the bond hadn't frayed despite Thug’s time away from the spotlight.
Why This Connection Matters
You might wonder why we’re still talking about a friendship between a retired boxer and a rapper. It’s because they both represent a specific type of American success story.
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Floyd Mayweather built an empire by being his own promoter. He took the "Money" persona and turned it into a billion-dollar brand. Young Thug did something similar with YSL. He didn't just rap; he built a movement, a look, and a sound that a whole generation of "slime" disciples followed.
They also both understand the weight of being a target. Floyd has always been the "villain" in boxing because he was too good and too loud. Thug faced a different kind of "villain" narrative during his trial. When they sit courtside together, it’s a meeting of two people who have been through the fire and came out the other side still wealthy and still relevant.
Common Misconceptions
Some fans used to think there was "beef" between them because of Floyd's friendship with T.I., who had some friction with Thug years ago. But that was never the case. Floyd has always stayed in his own lane, focusing on his business and his own circle. If anything, Floyd has acted more like a mentor figure from a distance.
What’s Next for the Duo?
While a formal business partnership seems unlikely at this stage—Floyd is focused on real estate and exhibition fights, and Thug is reclaiming his throne in music—the mutual support is clearly still there.
There are rumors of a potential documentary about the Atlanta music scene where Floyd might make an appearance to talk about the early days of trying to sign Thugger. Whether that happens or not, the respect is documented in the music and the public appearances.
If you’re looking to dive deeper into the history of these two, start by revisiting the Jeffery album. It’s the best way to understand the era when the worlds of Young Thug and Floyd Mayweather first truly collided.
Actionable Takeaways
- Listen to "Floyd Mayweather" (2016): Pay attention to the Gunna verse—it's essentially his origin story.
- Watch the 2016 Hollywood Unlocked Interview: It’s a masterclass in Floyd Mayweather’s business mindset and his eye for talent.
- Follow the YSL Legal Updates: Understanding Thug’s current status helps put his recent public appearances with figures like Mayweather into perspective.