Floyd Mayweather: Ortiz Fight First in a Series That Will Prove Greatness

Floyd Mayweather is 41-0, he has spent more than his share of time atop the fictional pound for pound rankings throughout his career. Still, he has almost as many detractors as he has supporters.

Some fans blast Floyd for what they perceive as tactics of avoidance in signing big fights. It is unclear as to who is to blame for the Manny Pacquiao fight not being made, but most would blame Mayweather.

He is perceived as arrogant, even by boxer's standards. He was once known as "Pretty Boy," but then he changed his moniker to a much more personality appropriate "Money."

All that said, Mayweather is now 34 years old. He hasn't fought in 16 months. He knows it is time to put an exclamation point on his illustrious career. He seems much more open to the Pacquiao fight now and a plan may be in place.

A possible three-fight series for Mayweather could be set-up starting Saturday, September 17 when he faces Victor Ortiz for the meaningless WBA Welterweight championship.

If and when Mayweather defeats Victor Ortiz, as most would expect, he is a 8:1 favorite to win. The Pacquiao fight seems to be setup for the summer of 2012. Pacquiao is scheduled to battle a much stiffer competitor in Juan Manuel Marquez in what will be their third meeting.

If Manny emerges unscathed, it is now or never for the super-fight. Even though the outcome would be in doubt, if Floyd were victorious in that match, the final fight in his career should be with Amir Khan.

There is always another fight. Fighters must decide to walk away at the right time, very few do. In this scenario, Mayweather would be defeating a young upstart that equals to a tune-up in Ortiz.

He would then get the biggest pay-day in boxing history by fighting and presumably defeating Pacquiao. By this time, Khan could have won two more fights against top competition, further solidifying his place as an elite welterweight. That will only add appeal to a Mayweather bout.

If Floyd can defeat Khan, his place in history as the greatest of his era would be almost impossible to debate.

For more reaction, results and analysis of this epic face-off in Las Vegas, stay right here. For all the info you need on all things boxing, be sure to check out Bleacher Report's Boxing Central.