One of the greatest pound-for-pound fighters in history, American boxer Floyd Mayweather has secured championships across five weight divisions.
Who Is Floyd Mayweather?
Born on February 24, 1977, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Floyd Mayweather has made a significant mark in the boxing world. Before turning professional in 1996, he won three national Golden Gloves and an Olympic bronze medal. In 1998, Mayweather claimed his first championship as a super featherweight, later amassing titles in four other weight classes while maintaining an undefeated record.
Early Years
Considered the greatest boxer of his era, Floyd Mayweather Jr. was born Floyd Joy Sinclair. Boxing runs in his blood: His father, Floyd Sr., was a welterweight contender, and his uncles, Jeff and Roger Mayweather, held championships in various weight classes.
From a young age, Floyd Sr. introduced Mayweather to boxing. By age 7, he was already fitted for his first pair of boxing gloves and spent considerable time training at a local gym. The gym, located just five doors down from his family’s home, became his second home. Taking his father’s last name, he aspired to follow in his footsteps to achieve boxing success.
Mayweather’s family life was tumultuous. His father, involved in drug dealing, was shot in the leg while holding him as a baby and later imprisoned for cocaine trafficking. His mother, Deborah, also struggled with substance abuse.
Amateur Success
Amidst family chaos, Mayweather found solace in the boxing ring. Known as “Pretty Boy” for his unmarked face, he won national Golden Gloves titles in 1993, 1994, and 1996. Although his amateur career ended with a controversial loss at the 1996 Olympics, resulting in a bronze medal, his potential was clear.
Pro Boxing Career
Mayweather turned professional on October 11, 1996, and quickly established himself as a dominant force in boxing. Managed and trained by his father, he won several bouts easily. In 1998, he captured his first world title, the WBC super featherweight championship, by defeating Genaro Hernandez.
From 2000 to 2007, Mayweather’s career soared. He moved up in weight classes, winning titles in lightweight, super lightweight, welterweight, and super welterweight categories. Notably, in 2007, he defeated Oscar De La Hoya for the WBC super welterweight crown. His success brought immense earnings, making him one of the highest-paid athletes in the world.
Retirement and Comeback
Mayweather shocked the sports world by retiring after defeating Ricky Hatton in 2007. He returned in 2009, winning a bout against Juan Manuel Marquez and later Shane Mosley. His unbeaten record continued with a unanimous decision victory over Robert Guerrero in 2013.
Bouts vs. Pacquiao and McGregor
In 2015, Mayweather fought Manny Pacquiao in the “Fight of the Century,” winning by unanimous decision. In 2017, he faced UFC champion Conor McGregor, defeating him via TKO in the 10th round, extending his record to 50-0.
Despite retiring, Mayweather continued to fight in exhibitions, including a bout against Japanese kickboxer Tenshin Nasukawa in 2018. In 2019, he hinted at another comeback.
Personal Life
Mayweather, a father of four, resides in Las Vegas. His relationship with his father has been strained at times, leading to professional splits and reconciliations. Outside the ring, he has faced legal issues, including a jail sentence for domestic violence.
Facts
- Gender: Male
- Best Known For: One of the best pound-for-pound fighters in history, American boxer Floyd Mayweather has won championships across five weight divisions.
- Industries: Boxing
- Astrological Sign: Pisces
- Occupations: Boxer
- Name: Floyd Mayweather
- Birth Year: 1977
- Birth Date: February 24, 1977
- Birth State: Michigan
- Birth City: Grand Rapids
- Birth Country: United States