Why Is Floyd Mayweather Suing a Las Vegas Car Dealer Over a Mercedes-Maybach G650?
Floyd Mayweather Jr., the undefeated boxing legend, is no stranger to the finer things in life—or to making headlines for his jaw-dropping car collection. But even for someone accustomed to luxury, his recent dispute with a Las Vegas dealership over a rare Mercedes-Maybach G650 Landaulet has turned heads. The core of the controversy? Mayweather claims he was overcharged by nearly half a million dollars for a vehicle that’s already the stuff of automotive legend.
What’s So Special About the Mercedes-Maybach G650 Landaulet?
Let’s get this out of the way: the G650 Landaulet isn’t your average SUV. Mercedes produced only 99 of these ultra-exclusive models, blending G-Class ruggedness with Maybach-level opulence. Think V12 engine, convertible rear roof, and reclining rear seats with massage functions. It’s the kind of ride you’d expect to see in a billionaire’s garage—or, in this case, Mayweather’s.
The market for these vehicles is notoriously unpredictable. While the original MSRP hovered around $500,000, auction prices have soared in recent years. According to Hagerty’s 2024 collector car index, G650s have fetched anywhere from $900,000 to over $1.5 million, depending on condition and provenance. So, yes, seven-figure price tags aren’t out of the ordinary.
How Did the Deal Go Down—and Where Did It Go Wrong?
In July, Mayweather agreed to purchase not just the G650, but also a Ferrari F8 Spider, a Porsche 911 GT3, and a McLaren Artura from Vegas Auto Gallery. The total bill? A cool $2.25 million, with the G650 alone priced at $1.2 million. Shortly after, Mayweather returned the Ferrari, Porsche, and McLaren—no harm, no foul. But when he tried to return the Maybach, the dealer refused.
That’s when things got messy. Mayweather alleges he was told the dealer paid $1.1 million for the G650—a markup he was willing to stomach. But after some digging, his team claims they discovered the dealer’s actual cost was just $728,000. The implication: he was misled and overcharged by nearly $500,000.
Is This Just Buyer’s Remorse, or Is There More to the Story?
It’s easy to dismiss this as a case of buyer’s remorse, especially given Mayweather’s history of extravagant purchases. But his lawsuit accuses the dealer of deceptive trade practices and misrepresentation. He also claims the car had been involved in previous lawsuits and had some parts replaced—details he says were not disclosed upfront.
For their part, Vegas Auto Gallery has fired back, calling the lawsuit “laughable and dead on arrival.” The dealership insists Mayweather signed a contract and still owes the full purchase price, noting he’s missed payment deadlines and previously acknowledged the debt.
What Do Experts Say About Dealer Markups and Transparency?
Here’s where things get interesting for anyone who’s ever bought a high-end car. Dealer markups on rare vehicles are nothing new, especially in a market where demand outpaces supply. According to a 2023 report from J.D. Power, average dealer profit margins on luxury and exotic cars can exceed 20%, and in rare cases—like limited-production models—margins can be even higher.
But transparency is key. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires dealers to disclose any known issues with a vehicle and prohibits misrepresentation of purchase costs. If Mayweather’s team can prove the dealer lied about the acquisition price or failed to disclose the car’s history, he could have a case. Still, proving intent or damages in court is notoriously tricky, especially when contracts are involved.
What Can Regular Buyers Learn From This High-Stakes Feud?
You don’t need Mayweather’s bank account to take away some practical lessons here. First, always do your homework—especially with rare or high-value purchases. Request documentation, verify the vehicle’s history, and don’t be afraid to negotiate or walk away if something feels off.
Second, understand that profit margins are part of the game, particularly with exclusive models. Dealers aren’t required to sell at cost, but they are required to be honest about the facts. If you’re ever unsure, consult a trusted third-party appraiser or attorney before signing anything.
The Big Takeaway From Mayweather’s Maybach Drama
At the end of the day, this isn’t just a story about a celebrity and a pricey SUV—it’s a reminder that even the savviest buyers can get caught off guard. Whether you’re shopping for a rare Mercedes or a used sedan, transparency and due diligence are your best defenses. The big takeaway? Buying luxury isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.