Broner stops Theophane in 9, then calls out Mayweather

MANILA, Philippines – Adrien Broner sure has high aspirations.

Broner stopped British contender Ashley Theophane in 9 rounds on Saturday, April 2 (Manila time) and promptly called out Theophane’s promoter – recently retired unbeaten former champ Floyd Mayweather Jr – at the DC Armory in Washington D.C.

Broner (32-2, 24 knockouts) and Mayweather had traded barbs in what appeared to be banter to sell an unpopular fight, but it may just turn out that there was a bigger plot all along.

“I’m a man at the end of the day,” said Broner, referencing Mayweather’s characterization of him as an alcoholic with money problems.

“I come from the streets, the trenches man. From the bottom, from nothing. I’m talking about water and cornflakes. I come from nothing and I will never let another man disrespect me like that. So he gotta see me. I don’t care if we’re sparring or we’re fighting. Let’s get it on.”

.@AdrienBroner celebrates his victory by calling out @FloydMayweather. Floyd’s reaction =  #PBConSpike https://t.co/BLz9v5bJAN

— PBC (@premierboxing) April 2, 2016

Mayweather, who was seated at ringside, greeted the challenge with mocking laughter.

The lead-up to Broner vs Theophane was marred by controversy as Broner had a warrant issued for his arrest over accusations of armed robbery in Ohio. Broner made a deal to turn himself in following the fight. Broner also missed weight for the fight, vacating his WBA junior welterweight title in the process.

The fight itself didn’t lack in controversy as Theophane was hit with a low blow moments before the stoppage, and the fight was halted when he attempted to alert the referee about the foul. – Rappler.com