【Unlocking Word Meanings】
今日の単語・フレーズ
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
1. motivate [MOH-tuh-veyt] (v.) – to encourage someone to do something
Example: The boxer was motivated by his desire to become famous.
2. punch [puhnch] (n.) – the act of hitting with the use of one’s fist
Example: The opponent fell after Manny Pacquiao’s well-aimed punch.
3. troubled [TRUHB-uh ld] (adj.) – full of problems or difficulties
Example: His troubled life motivated him to become stronger.
4. professional [pruh-FESH-uh-nl] (adj.) – showing great skill; expert
Example: Juan Manuel Marquez is a Mexican professional boxer with an estimated net worth of $10 Million.
5. status [STEY-tuhs, STAT-uhs] (n.) – high rank or social standing
Example: After all his hard work, the boxer is now enjoying his wealth and status.
【Article】
ニュース記事
Read the text below.
A recent interview with Floyd Mayweather, a famous boxer from Michigan [MISH-i-guh n], USA, revealed how he succeeded in the boxing field, causing his present wealth.
According to Forbes.com, Mayweather earned $175,000 per punch in his last boxing match, making him $34 million richer. Because of his overwhelming wealth, he has been called ‘Money.’ His wealth is expected to further increase as Mayweather is set to have a fight with Saul “Canelo” Alvarez in Las Vegas later this year.
The interview also revealed that Mayweather has always dreamt of becoming wealthy someday. He wants to be the best and to be included in the boxing hall of fame someday. He also added that boxing is about making a lot of money and giving the fans what they want to see.
Indeed, he managed to be one of the best in the boxing industry. Mayweather has never lost a professional fight. However, he mentioned in the interview that he considers losing his uncle and grandfather recently as a very big loss.
Belonging to a troubled family, the boxer raised himself almost alone. His mother was a drug addict and his father was in jail while he was growing up. Despite his difficult past, Mayweather uses these memories to be focused and to motivate himself to win. He stressed that what lasts are not tough memories but tough people, as they can overcome any difficult past.
Today, Mayweather is undoubtedly one of the biggest personalities in sports. The five-foot, eight-inch boxer achieved his current status through hard work and dedication to his craft.
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【Viewpoint Discussion】
ディスカッションテーマ
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
· If you were Floyd Mayweather, would you still engage yourself in another fight after winning millions of dollars in several boxing matches? Why or Why not?
· Do you think letting oneself get hurt just to earn money is appropriate? Please explain your answer.
Discussion B
· Is being rich and famous important in having a satisfying life? Why or why not?
· Why do you think some people do anything for the sake of money and fame?