By Vitali Shaposhnikov: Ever since the Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao drama took center stage, both fighters have been in the spotlight for anything and everything they were a part of. Many of us assume that their good deeds, charitable work, and the “nice guy” persona is something that they artificially concoct for the media to swallow, and regurgitate to the public and the boxing community. While all this may be true to a certain degree, sometimes the good deeds are not intended to be a show, but instead are cloaked acts of humble giving and attempting to help those who need it most.
Floyd Mayweather Jr. has always remained consistent in giving to his local community. From turkey drives and visits to the homeless shelters, to attending numerous fundraisers benefiting various people and causes, Floyd has shown his modest side plenty of times.
Recently, Floyd Mayweather Jr. paid $49,000 in medical bills for a 10-month-old Austin York, who has undergone a variety of heart surgeries due to a cardiac defect.
Source: (http://sports.yahoo.com/box/news?slug=ki-iole_floyd_mayweather_austin_york_medical_bills_032012)
“I spoke with Floyd on the phone and told him about the child and everything he and his family had been dealing with,” stated David L. Levi, an assistant to Floyd.
“He responded, saying ‘Let them know I will take care of all the medical bills. I want to help him.’ A lot of people who don’t like him think he does these things for the media attention, but you know, we don’t even call the media and let them know. He likes to do things locally so he feels he can make an impact in the community where he lives. He’s always coming up with these ideas and getting the team and bringing them to the soup kitchens, because he has compassion. He donated a ridiculous amount of toys at Christmas for needy kids. It was insane. But he does that kind of thing a lot.”
Sure the sum of $49,000 is but pocket change for the unbeaten boxing champion, but to some, it is nothing short of the cost of life. Things like this should always make their way into the highlights, as they put on a display of how assumptions can be very misleading.
Mayweather Jr., Manny Pacquiao, and many other celebrities take their time and effort to help others, but unfortunately, they do this with alternative motives in mind. Despite the fact that this is done locally and without any media attention, Floyd has never ceased to do his share for the community.