5 Most Memorable Floyd Mayweather Fights

Floyd Mayweather vs. Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez

“Money” was matched against Saul “Canelo” Alvarez in September 2013 – with Alvarez unbeaten. The fight set a record $150 million in total pay-per-view sales. The Mexican fighter tried to land heavy punches on the American. Mayweather was at his elusive best, as he delivered a professional performance and won in impressive style. Amazingly, Judge C.J. Ross scored the bout even though everyone else seemed to score it a one-sided victory for Mayweather, with “Canelo” unable to deal with the speed of “Money” while struggling to land a significant blow throughout the fight, with Mayweather landing his jab almost at will.

Floyd Mayweather vs. Diego Corrales

“Money” chose to defend his WBC super featherweight strap against Diego Corrales, who was undefeated. “Chico” was as awkward as they come, with KO power in both hands and on a three-fight knockout spree. “Money” put on a defensive masterclass, forcing Corrales to punch thin air throughout. He also impressed everyone watching with his variety of punches, landing left hooks, straight rights and jabs with unbelievable accuracy. He also showed his power, dropping Corrales on a number of occasions before his trainer and step-father Ray Woods threw in the towel during round 10.

Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquiao

We all waited what felt like a lifetime to see Mayweather fight Manny Pacquiao – and finally got our wish after five years. The fight broke box office records, generating 4.6 million pay-per-view buys, which still stands at number one, and more than $400 million in revenue. Once fight night arrived, we all witnessed a dominant performance from “Money” against “PacMan.” It confirmed beyond doubt that Mayweather was the greatest fighter of that era.

The accuracy of Mayweather is what negated the strengths of Pacquiao. The Filipino fighter struggled to land a telling blow throughout – with “Money” being at this elusive best, implementing his effective shoulder roll defence. The Michigan fighter was also brilliant at dictating the pace behind his accurate jab.

Mayweather vs. Genaro Hernandez

Mayweather fought for his first world title at super featherweight two years after entering the world of professional boxing. He went up against then-champion Genaro Hernandez, who had only previously lost to Oscar De La Hoya. “Money” schooled Hernandez, taking him apart from the first bell. Mayweather used his jab brilliantly, which kept him in control of the fight and ensured he dictated the pace. It was a one-sided contest, which saw Hernandez not answer the bell for the ninth round.

Mayweather vs. Oscar De La Hoya

The victory over Oscar De La Hoya catapulted Mayweather to a new level of super-stardom. The fight garnered a then-record 2.4 million pay-per-views. 

Many tipped De La Hoya to be too strong for “Money” at 154lbs. Mayweather predicted a different outcome with De La Hoya tiring in the championship rounds. This prediction came true with Mayweather landing single shots at will throughout rounds nine and 10. He countered brilliantly and was at his elusive best later in the fight, which saw him win via a split decision.