Floyd Mayweather Sr. has thrown his hat into the ring regarding the debate around Deontay Wilder by stating that he 'does not hit that hard.'

Mayweather Sr. was watching on as Wilder survived a scare to see off Luis Ortiz on Saturday night in Las Vegas.

Wilder was in serious trouble after six rounds, having lost each one on the scorecards, but produced an explosive knockout in the seventh to finish the contest and send a message throughout the heavyweight division.

As a result of the win over Ortiz, Wilder retains the WBC belt and ensures that his unbeaten record remains intact.

The Bronze Bomber, undefeated in 43 fights and with 10 title defences, will now look ahead to a rematch with Tyson Fury in February and has also kept hopes alive of a possible undisputed fight against Anthony Joshua or Andy Ruiz Jr. at some point next year.

Deontay Wilder brutally knocks out Luis Ortiz

Slow-motion replay of Deontay Wilder's punch against Luis Ortiz

Deontay Wilder's brother was knocked out on his undercard

And although there are obvious chinks in Wilder's armour, his punching power is considered by most to be his biggest strength.

Mayweather Sr. however, has sensationally expressed his doubts about that.

When asked by YouTube channel Fight Hub TV if Wilder is one of the best punchers he has seen, Mayweather Sr. instantly rejected the possibility.

“Wait a minute, man. No way. I don’t think he hit that hard.”

He was then asked how Wilder compares to former Muhammad Ali rival George Foreman.

“Hell no. He’s not anywhere near them.”

Watch the video from 2:00 below.

Pretty strong words considering the manner of Wilder's win in Las Vegas. But there's no doubt that Wilder has sterner tests ahead in his rematch with Fury and a possible showdown with Joshua or Ruiz Jr.