Floyd Mayweather Jr. Ordered to Pay $2.4 Million to Nigerian Firm for Breach of Contract

A United States court has upheld a ruling requiring former professional boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. to pay $2.4 million to Zinni Media Concept Limited, a Nigerian marketing and media company, for violating the terms of their contract.

Background

In June 2017, Mayweather signed an agreement with Zinni Media to make various appearances in Africa, including Nigeria. The company paid Mayweather an advance payment for his services, but he unilaterally terminated the contract without cause and refused to refund the payment.

Legal Battle

Zinni Media sued Mayweather in 2018, alleging breach of contract, unjust enrichment, and fraud. After a lengthy legal battle, a California court ruled in favor of Zinni Media in October 2023, ordering Mayweather to pay:

• $1,638,542 in damages
• $721,881.32 in prejudgment interest
• $16,270 in sanctioned attorney fees
• $285 in costs

Total compensation: $2,376,978

Appeal and Latest Ruling

Mayweather appealed the verdict, but the California Court of Appeals affirmed the lower court’s decision on August 27, 2024.

Implications

• Mayweather’s refusal to refund the advance payment led to significant financial losses for Zinni Media.
• The ruling sets a precedent for international business agreements and contract enforcement.
• Mayweather’s reputation may be affected by the breach of contract and failure to comply with court orders.

Enforcement

US attorneys are authorized to enforce the judgment by targeting Mayweather’s luxury vehicles, including:

• 2015 Bugatti Veyron
• 2015 Ferrari LaFerrari Aperta

Both vehicles are valued above the owed damages.

Reactions

• Zinni Media’s media executive, Alex Nwankwo, expressed gratitude for the court’s decision.
• Mayweather’s representatives have not publicly commented on the ruling.

Similar Cases

• Other high-profile cases involving breach of contract and international business agreements.
• Implications for athletes and celebrities entering into global business partnerships.

Conclusion

The ruling serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring contractual agreements and complying with court orders. Mayweather’s failure to do so has resulted in significant financial consequences.