Mayweather vs. Canelo: Money Will Not Let Record Purse Become Distraction

Floyd "Money" Mayweather will live up to his nickname when he takes on Saul "Canelo" Alvarez on Saturday, Sept. 14, in Las Vegas, but he won't let his record-breaking purse become a distraction.

Dan Rafael of ESPN confirmed on Wednesday that Mayweather will earn a record purse of $41.5 million when he steps in the ring this weekend.

That amount has many fans chattering, but he is a good enough fighter that he will be focused on his opponent, not the money. After all, Money has already made plenty throughout his career.

Mayweather has a lot on the line against Alvarez. He enters the fight with a perfect 44-0 record and he's facing a viable up-and-coming contender, so he will need to be ready to go from the start.

Luckily, Money takes an approach to the sport that has been impossible to overcome. His dedication to conditioning is second to none, and his defensive fighting frustrates opponents. He has the ability to duck away in order to avoid high punches, making it tough for anyone to make contact. He's also a brilliant counter-puncher.

The 36-year-old is so effective because of his footwork. His feet allow him to move around enough to avoid the opposition, but he remains in good enough position to put some power behind his own punches, which he throws with precision.

Mayweather is the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world. He's never allowed anything to distract him from getting the job done in the past, and thoughts of the big purse won't get in his way this weekend, either. 

After all, the experienced fighter can't afford to be distracted against Canelo. 

Alvarez has an impressive record of 42-0-1 with 30 KOs. He has won every fight since July of 2007 and continues to be a rising star in boxing. However, he hasn't faced anyone that is as skilled as his next opponent.

While Mayweather takes a defensive approach, Canelo uses powerful offense. He has the ability to knock out his opponents, and that will be the only way that he can win on Saturday night. Money will outlast him if it goes the distance, so he will need to go for the knockout and establish his presence early on.

Even the slightest distraction could be detrimental for Money. He knows that, and he will be ready. One powerful punch from Canelo could end Money's perfect run, so he must not lose focus as he progressively studies Alvarez's moves.   

It would be easy for the $41.5 million to become a distraction. It's a lot of money, and some boxers might be content to just show up to earn a check. Mayweather takes pride in his fighting and preparation, though, which means that he doesn't want a single blemish on his record.

Now that the purse has been finalized, all of his attention will be on beating Canelo. Although Alvarez's power presents a challenge for Money, he will be ready to do what he always does and win.