Floyd Mayweather: Ring Rust Could Spell Defeat Against Victor Ortiz

As Floyd Mayweather, Jr. steps into the ring Saturday night at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada, he will have spent 16 months away from boxing since he scored a unanimous decision against Shane Mosley in May 2010.

After a long holiday, Mayweather needs to shake off the rust that has accumulated in his body, which could become a factor in a possible upset win by Ortiz.  

Mayweather has reportedly spent most of his time outside his gym in Las Vegas. In the company of his friend 50 Cent, Mayweather was most often seen gambling and betting on his favorite games.

Staying out late in the company of friends could take its toll on his health, especially if he miss out on his regular gym rituals. 

Last March, Examiner.com's Rick Rockwell said, "Floyd is spending more time traveling, clubbing, partying and gambling than training for any potential fight. For a fighter that prides himself on his conditioning and training, it seems that he's more committed to hitting his bets than hitting the bags or mitts."

While Mayweather is training hard for his Saturday showdown with Ortiz, the time he spent in the gym and his sparring sessions may not be enough to offset the 16 months he has mostly spent partying and gambling. 

Ortiz is noted for his aggressive stance and naturally brings fights to his opponents without hesitation or fear. He surprised the boxing world with his conquest of unbeaten Andre Berto, who succumbed to his unrelenting attack. 

In facing Ortiz, who is very much hungry for recognition, Mayweather needs to be well conditioned to counter Ortiz's attack. 

Ortiz, who is a southpaw and a decade younger than Mayweather, is definitely in his prime. Ortiz knows Mayweather, who is turning 35 next February, will have a hard time defending himself from Ortiz's vicious attack.

Mayweather's aging body, coupled with his "ring rust," could indeed result in an upset win for Ortiz this Saturday night.