Floyd Mayweather Jr. has long been known for dominance in the ring, but it’s his latest move outside of boxing that is making waves far beyond the world of sports. The undefeated Grand Rapids native, whose 50-0 record cemented his place in boxing history, is now shaking up Manhattan real estate with a bold, record-breaking $402 million investment. His purchase of 62 buildings, totaling over 1,000 affordable housing units, is one of the largest multifamily real estate transactions New York City has seen in recent years.
For a city where high-stakes investments are the norm, Mayweather’s move is more than just a headline. It’s a calculated shift that brings affordable housing into focus, particularly in historically Black and immigrant-heavy communities like Harlem, Washington Heights, and Inwood. These areas have long been subject to gentrification, with developers often prioritizing high-end luxury units over affordability for working-class residents. Mayweather, whose childhood was defined by financial hardship, understands the value of real estate ownership not just as a business move, but as a key to economic empowerment.
Mayweather made it clear that his foray into real estate is not a vanity project. He wants others, particularly his fans, to see the potential in the market. “Well, lately I purchased 62 apartment buildings in New York City. Guess what, all the buildings belong to me, I don’t have no partners. All the retails down below on my buildings, all of them belong to me too. Guess what, you can do the same, it’s all about making power moves,” he said on Instagram. His direct and unfiltered message is meant to push others to consider wealth-building strategies that extend beyond traditional means.
The transaction underscores the growing significance of Black ownership in spaces where wealth has historically been concentrated among a select few. Manhattan real estate has long been one of the most competitive and expensive markets in the world. For a Black investor, particularly one without deep generational ties to the industry, securing such a large portfolio is both rare and significant. Mayweather is sending a message that Black wealth and ownership are not just possible, but necessary for breaking cycles of economic disparity.
Growing up in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Mayweather knew firsthand what it meant to live with limited resources. Sharing a one-bedroom apartment with seven family members was part of his reality. That perspective shaped his approach to financial literacy and wealth-building. Now, with a real estate portfolio exceeding $402 million, he is turning that knowledge into generational wealth.
Beyond real estate, Mayweather has his sights set on another major acquisition. He is actively working to become an NFL team owner, leading a group that is looking to purchase a 10% stake in the New York Giants. Sources close to the deal suggest that this move could be one of the most significant in professional sports, with the price tag expected to be around $700 million. Reports indicate that Mayweather has already moved $200 million into an escrow account, a clear demonstration of his seriousness about the purchase.
This is more than just a financial move. The NFL, historically criticized for its lack of Black ownership at the executive level, remains one of the most exclusive sports leagues in terms of franchise leadership. While players of color make up the majority of the league, ownership remains overwhelmingly white. Mayweather’s potential acquisition of a stake in the Giants represents a challenge to that status quo.
According to TMZ Sports, Mayweather and real estate mogul Meyer Orbach are in active talks, and another high-profile investor may soon join the deal. The Giants are currently valued at $7.5 billion, making them one of the most valuable franchises in the NFL. With team owners John Mara and Steve Tisch looking to sell part of their stake, the timing aligns perfectly for Mayweather to make his entry into NFL ownership.
Two current NFL team owners have already sent letters of support for Mayweather’s bid, an indication that his presence in the league is being taken seriously. If successful, his investment would be a significant moment for Black ownership in professional sports, further proving that economic power in sports should not be limited to salaries and endorsements.
Mayweather’s strategy is rooted in a belief that financial literacy and calculated risk-taking are essential for wealth-building, particularly within the Black community. He has consistently advocated for economic independence, emphasizing that athletes and entertainers should be more than just talent—they should be owners. His journey from a child in Grand Rapids to a world champion and now a major player in real estate and professional sports ownership demonstrates the importance of controlling assets rather than just generating income.
His involvement in New York real estate also comes at a critical time. Affordable housing remains one of the most pressing issues in the city, as residents face rising rents, displacement, and a widening wealth gap. While some investors purchase properties only to push out low-income tenants in favor of luxury development, Mayweather’s focus on affordable housing raises questions about his long-term vision. If his track record in business and boxing is any indication, this move is likely about more than just financial gain.
As Black ownership continues to grow in spaces traditionally dominated by white wealth, Mayweather’s latest investment is a statement that financial power is shifting. His actions speak to a larger movement of Black entrepreneurs taking control of industries where they have historically been excluded. His push into real estate and sports ownership is not just about making money; it’s about redefining who holds the keys to economic influence.
Mayweather has always been strategic, whether inside the ring or in business. His real estate investments, combined with his efforts to secure a stake in an NFL franchise, reflect a blueprint for economic empowerment that challenges conventional norms. He is not waiting for permission to enter industries that have long been closed off to Black investors—he is making space. And in doing so, he is setting a new standard for ownership, generational wealth, and what it means to truly be undefeated.
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