Floyd Mayweather stepped into a different kind of ring Saturday night, accepting the Israeli World Champion Award from the Republican Jewish Coalition at the annual Leadership Summit in Las Vegas.
The undefeated boxing legend was recognized for his “big heart” and “generous support for the people of Israel during the Gaza war.”
“I don’t support you 10 percent, 50 percent. I will always be a voice for the people of Israel. I will always support the state of Israel, the one and only Floyd Mayweather of Israel. I will always be here for you when you don’t have a voice,” Floyd Mayweather said in his speech.
The 48-year-old champion has visited Israel several times since the Hamas terror attacks on October 7, 2023, which killed around 1,200 people and resulted in the kidnapping of more than 250 people.
During these trips, Floyd Mayweather provided support to United Hazaras, injured IDF soldiers, and Israeli children orphaned by the war.
The boxing icon, who has been outspoken about his commitment, seemed aware that he would face some backlash after accepting the award from the Republican Jewish Coalition.
“I’m going to stand up strong and no matter what I go through, no matter how much opposition I get, I’m going to live for myself,” Floyd Mayweather said. “Whenever there is any war, I will be on your side. Count me in.”
The Republican Jewish Coalition praised Mayweather’s efforts in a statement, noting that he “has dedicated his time, energy and resources to help the Israelis when they need it most.”
The organization stressed that “Mayweather’s support has provided immeasurable help to United Hazaras, injured IDF soldiers and Israeli children orphaned by the war.”
During his visit to Israel, Mayweather met with Israeli soldiers at Hilton Beach in Tel Aviv, giving them encouragement and taking photos with them. “These are young fighters,” he said. “I’m a young warrior. I know what this is about.”
The RJC also recognized Mayweather for speaking out against anti-Semitism and anti-Israel sentiment in the United States.
“He also spoke out against anti-Semitism and anti-Israel hatred at home. He was a defender of Israel and the Jewish people,” the coalition said.
Mayweather told Israel Hayom earlier this year, “I can’t remember how many times I’ve been to Israel, but probably a lot. It’s a beautiful place with great people. I’ve always had Israeli friends and I will continue to come here until the day I die.”
The Las Vegas summit featured prominent conservative voices, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, Sen. Lindsey Graham and Arkansas Gov. Sarah Sanders. Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon also attended the event.
Mayweather, who retired with a perfect 50-0 record, has also been outspoken politically and has previously expressed strong support for President Donald Trump, calling him “a great president” and “a great businessman.”
As he predicted, the boxer faced fierce criticism on social media.
“I can only imagine how much Floyd Mayweather is owed for doing this,” one user said. Another user wrote: “Netanyahu doesn’t give a shit about your black a$$ Floyd Mayweather. So tired of submissive black celebrities like him.”
Floyd Mayweather might as well change his nickname to Buckwheat. pic.twitter.com/xXcqiJBQue
— Maximus (@afro9strong) November 3, 2025
Floyd Mayweather…money isn’t everything, man 🤦🏽♂️
— Quony Wick (@quontroversy) November 3, 2025
A drunken Floyd Mayweather, known for his prowess in foreign policy.
Is this the best recognition for you?
— SkyJefe (@jefe_sky) November 3, 2025
You are not helping your case.
Floyd “Money” Mayweather was also punched multiple times in the head.— Sir Cheddar Witt (@LudwigTheGuy1) November 3, 2025
Did Floyd Mayweather just declare allegiance to Israel? Lu Mao
— 👾 (@hazywillnot) November 3, 2025

