Floyd Mayweather Jr., widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive boxers in history, had a stellar career marked by undefeated records and victories over multiple world champions. Let’s break down some of Floyd Mayweather Jr.’s most memorable fights inside the ring:
1. Mayweather vs. Genaro Hernandez (October 3, 1998):
- Mayweather won his first world title, the WBC super featherweight title, by defeating Genaro Hernandez. This victory marked the beginning of Mayweather’s championship reign and showcased his exceptional skills even in the early stages of his career.
2. Mayweather vs. Diego Corrales (January 20, 2001):
- Mayweather faced the undefeated Diego Corrales in a highly anticipated bout. Mayweather dominated Corrales, using his superior speed and accuracy to secure a TKO victory in the 10th round. The win highlighted Mayweather’s ability to dissect and dismantle high-caliber opponents.
3. Mayweather vs. Jose Luis Castillo I (April 20, 2002):
- In a contentious bout, Mayweather faced Jose Luis Castillo for the WBC lightweight title. Mayweather won a close unanimous decision, but some observers believed Castillo had performed well enough to warrant a different result. Mayweather displayed his defensive prowess, but the fight remains a subject of debate among fans.
4. Mayweather vs. Oscar De La Hoya (May 5, 2007):
- One of the most lucrative fights in boxing history, Mayweather faced Oscar De La Hoya for the WBC super welterweight title. Mayweather won a split decision in a highly competitive bout, showcasing his ability to adapt and outbox a larger opponent. This fight helped elevate Mayweather’s status as a pay-per-view star.
5. Mayweather vs. Ricky Hatton (December 8, 2007):
- Mayweather faced the undefeated Ricky Hatton in a showdown between two of the best fighters in the world. Mayweather displayed his defensive mastery and scored a 10th-round TKO victory, maintaining his unbeaten record. The bout showcased Mayweather’s ability to weather early aggression and break down his opponent over the course of the fight.
6. Mayweather vs. Juan Manuel Marquez (September 19, 2009):
- After a brief retirement, Mayweather returned to the ring to face Juan Manuel Marquez. Mayweather’s precision and defensive brilliance were on full display as he secured a dominant unanimous decision victory.
7. Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquiao (May 2, 2015):
- One of the most anticipated fights in boxing history, Mayweather faced Manny Pacquiao in a bout that set records for pay-per-view buys. Mayweather’s defensive skills and strategic approach led to a unanimous decision victory, solidifying his status as one of the all-time greats.
8. Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor (August 26, 2017):
- Mayweather came out of retirement to face UFC superstar Conor McGregor in a crossover event. While unconventional, the bout showcased Mayweather’s ability to adjust to different styles, and he ultimately secured a 10th-round TKO victory.
Floyd Mayweather Jr.’s legacy is defined not only by his undefeated record but also by the manner in which he dominated top opponents with his defensive prowess, ring intelligence, and strategic brilliance. Each of these fights contributed to the narrative of Mayweather’s legendary career.
