My First Major Boxing Event in Miami

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 When I launched iTalkSports, I never imagined that one day I would be standing alongside some of the biggest names in boxing, sports, and entertainment. That dream became reality when I traveled to Miami to cover Floyd Mayweather vs. John Gotti III, my first major boxing event as a member of the media.

For me, this trip was about more than boxing. It was my introduction to the world of professional sports journalism, and it remains one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life.

Before anything else, I want to thank Mayweather Promotions for giving newcomers and rookie media members like myself an opportunity. In a business where access can be difficult to obtain, they opened the door and allowed aspiring journalists, photographers, and content creators to experience a major fight week firsthand. That opportunity meant everything to me and many others who were just beginning our journeys in sports media.

Miami was alive throughout fight week. The weather was hot, the fans were energized, and celebrities seemed to be everywhere. From press conferences to weigh-ins, hotel lobbies to fight-night events, every moment felt larger than life. One of the biggest highlights was meeting some of boxing's most legendary figures. I had the opportunity to meet Hall of Famers Evander Holyfield and Larry Holmes, as well as legendary promoter Don King. These are men whose names are forever etched in boxing history, and seeing them in person was a surreal experience.

I also met current and former boxing stars including Adrien Broner, Rolando "Rolly" Romero, Guillermo Rigondeaux, and Jarrell "Big Baby" Miller. Being able to interact with fighters I had watched for years gave me an even greater appreciation for the sport and the personalities that make it special.

Another memorable moment was meeting legendary referee Kenny Bayless, one of the most respected officials in boxing history. His presence alone reminded me just how many great people contribute to the sport beyond the fighters inside the ring. A rookie mistake I made was when he called the bout and the brawl began, Bayless walked out and I approached him and asked what happed, he gave me the exclusive  first comments and explanation which we didn't get until a few hours later and my camera wasn't rolling. Devastating!!!

The weekend wasn't limited to boxing. I also crossed paths with comedian Michael Blackson, music superstars Nicky Jam, Luis Fonsi, and Natti Natasha, former NBA star Carlos Arroyo, hip-hop icon Rick Ross, and many other celebrities who were in town for the event.

Of course, the event itself became one of the most talked-about nights in boxing. What was expected to be an exhibition between Floyd Mayweather and John Gotti III ended in controversy when tensions boiled over into a post-fight brawl. The fight was stopped, chaos erupted inside the ring, and both participants were ultimately disqualified as the event made headlines around the world.

Despite the controversy, the experience was invaluable. It taught me what it means to cover live events, work alongside professional media members, and tell stories from the front row instead of watching from home.

Looking back, that weekend wasn't defined by the brawl or the headlines. It was defined by opportunity. It was the moment iTalkSports took a major step forward. It was the first time I truly felt like I belonged in the media world.

From meeting Hall of Famers and world champions to sharing space with celebrities and fellow journalists, Miami gave me memories that will last a lifetime.

For many people, it was just another fight week.

For me, it was the beginning of something much bigger.