Floyd Mayweather visits wounded IDF soldiers at the Belev Echad Rehabilitation Center near Tel Aviv (Photo: Belev Echad/Facebook)
Renowned boxing legend Floyd Mayweather visited the Belev Echad Rehabilitation Center near Tel Aviv earlier this week, offering his support and words of encouragement to Israel Defense Force (IDF) soldiers wounded in the ongoing war in Gaza against Hamas terrorists.
Jewish businessman Yona Rechnitz invited the undefeated boxing champion for his fourth visit to Israel since the start of the conflict, with his last taking place in March.
Mayweather shared his esteem for the IDF soldiers’ bravery and resilience.
“I see so many bright faces, so many beautiful people. You guys are brave warriors. I take my hat off to everyone in here that goes on that battlefield,” he said.
“You guys are team players. I’m proud of you all. Hold your heads up high, and just know every day is a blessing. You guys are true heroes and warriors, and I’m behind you 100%.”
Floyd Mayweather visits wounded IDF soldiers at the Belev Echad Rehabilitation Center near Tel Aviv (Photo: Belev Echad/Facebook)
He told the Israeli troops he would be back.
The Belev Echad Rehab Center provides critical medical care, emotional support and long-term rehabilitation services for soldiers severely wounded in battle.
Moti Fried, who accompanied the boxing legend, expressed admiration for Mayweather’s show of solidarity.
“It’s simply unbelievable that he drops everything and comes here for the fourth time. He’s a legend in his field, and his love for Israel and the Jewish people is something truly exceptional.”
Rabbi Uriel and Shevy Vigler, founders of Belev Echad, expressed their appreciation.
“Floyd’s support and compassion mean the world to these soldiers,” Uriel said.
“His visit lifts their spirits and reminds them that people across the globe are standing with them,” Vigler added. “Floyd’s connection to our soldiers speaks volumes. His presence here brings hope and a renewed sense of strength to those who have sacrificed so much for Israel.”
Mayweather posted on his Instagram, “I stand with Israel against the Hamas terrorists. Hamas does not represent the people of Palestine but are a terrorist group that are attacking innocent lives! I stand for all humans and wish for the safe return of all Americans and Israelis and any human that were kidnapped as hostages during these horrific war crimes. ”
The boxing legend went on to speak out against antisemitism and terrorism.
“I stand with Israel and Jews all around the world. I condemn antisemitism at all costs. I stand for peace. I stand for human rights! Terrorism is never the answer,” he said while holding an image of a fist in the colors of the Israeli flag.
Media outlets reported that Mayweather will be sending a shipment of aid to Israel on his private jet, including food, water, and bulletproof vests for the IDF and civilians.
More than 4,570 soldiers, reservists and local security officers have been wounded since the beginning of the war, according to the IDF.
In March, Mayweather visited Israel as part of a world tour.
“Exploring the globe with my team on my annual world tour. This leg of my journey has brought me to Israel. We’re excited to learn more of its history and expand our knowledge. Let’s spread love and positivity together!” he wrote on Instagram, where he has nearly 30 million followers.
Mayweather visited Aish HaTorah and the United Hatzalah headquarters in Jerusalem on his tour.
Aish HaTorah presented the athlete with its Champion for Israel Award, “a special honor reserved for those who continue to advocate against hate and antisemitism and stand up for Israel,” during a ceremony on Aish’s roof, which overlooks the Western Wall.
Floyd Mayweather receives a custom made TMT kippah (Photo: Floyd Mayweather/Instagram)