Floyd Mayweather Jr slapped with major legal blow as Showtime strikes back in $340 million lawsuit in fresh twist

Floyd Mayweather Jr is preparing for his return to the boxing ring, but a major legal challenge has emerged ahead of his comeback. The undefeated boxing legend filed a $340 million lawsuit against Showtime earlier this year, accusing the network and former executive Stephen Espinoza of mishandling money linked to some of his biggest fights. However, the case has now taken a new turn after Showtime responded with a counterclaim in court.The latest development comes less than three weeks before Mayweather’s scheduled return to professional boxing. Showtime has reportedly filed a motion for default judgment against Mayweather Promotions LLC, arguing that any payment-related issues raised in the lawsuit are the responsibility of Mayweather’s own company. The legal dispute centers on earnings from several blockbuster events that generated massive revenue throughout Mayweather’s career.According to court filings, Showtime claims that its agreements clearly placed responsibility for fighter payments on Mayweather Promotions. The network stated that the promotions company was listed as the official promoter for the events and was responsible for providing payment instructions and distributing money to fighters, including Floyd Mayweather Jr himself.Showtime maintains that it transferred all required funds under the terms of the agreements. The company argues that if Mayweather did not receive money he believes he was owed, then the issue lies with the promoter and not with the broadcaster. As a result, Showtime is seeking reimbursement for legal expenses and any potential damages connected to the lawsuit.The network also contends that the contracts required Mayweather to pursue payment claims through the promoter rather than directly against Showtime. In addition, it has requested that the case be decided by a jury.The dispute stems from Mayweather’s allegations that earnings from major fights against stars such as Manny Pacquiao and Conor McGregor were improperly redirected through accounts controlled by his former manager. Those bouts were among the most profitable events in boxing history and generated enormous pay-per-view revenue.Former Showtime Sports president Stephen Espinoza has already rejected the accusations. In comments made earlier, he said he has always conducted business honestly and never attempted to deny fighters money they were owed. He added that he was surprised by the allegations and believes the legal process will eventually determine the truth.Meanwhile, Showtime’s parent company, Paramount, has also dismissed the claims. The company described the accusations as unsupported and insisted it would challenge them through the court system.The latest filing adds to a growing list of legal issues surrounding Mayweather. It also arrives at a significant moment in his career, as the boxing icon prepares for another high-profile chapter inside the ring while simultaneously defending himself in multiple court battles outside of it.