Lasting Legacy of Floyd Mayweather Jr.: A Look at the Influence on History

A closer look at the lasting mark left by Floyd Mayweather Jr.—a timeline of influence.

Floyd Mayweather Jr. is a retired American professional boxer and current boxing promoter. Competing from 1996 to 2017, he boasts an undefeated record and secured 15 major world championships across five weight classes. His accolades include Ring magazine titles in three weight classes and lineal championships in four. As an amateur, he earned a bronze medal at the 1996 Olympics. Since retiring from professional boxing, he has participated in exhibition boxing matches.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

1998: Recognition as Top Boxer

By the end of 1998, Mayweather was ranked as a top pound-for-pound boxer and received The Ring's Fighter of the Year award at a young age.

2003: Domination in the Ring

By the end of 2003, Mayweather was still The Ring's lightweight champion and a top-ranked pound-for-pound boxer.

May 5, 2007: Mayweather vs. De La Hoya Fight

On May 5, 2007, Mayweather fought Oscar De La Hoya for the WBC light-middleweight title. The bout set a record for PPV buys and generated significant revenue.

2012: Forbes and Sports Illustrated Lists

In 2012, Floyd Mayweather topped the Forbes and Sports Illustrated lists of the 50 highest-paid athletes.

2013: Forbes and Sports Illustrated Lists

In 2013, Floyd Mayweather topped the Forbes and Sports Illustrated lists of the 50 highest-paid athletes.

2014: Forbes List

In 2014, Floyd Mayweather topped the Forbes list as the highest-paid athlete in the world.

2015: Forbes List

In 2015, Floyd Mayweather topped the Forbes list as the highest-paid athlete in the world.

2016: ESPN Ranks Mayweather Greatest Boxer

In 2016, ESPN ranked Floyd Mayweather Jr. as the greatest boxer, pound for pound, of the last 25 years.

2018: Highest-Paid Athlete

In 2018, Floyd Mayweather was the highest-paid athlete in the world, with total earnings, including endorsements, of $285 million.

2021: Induction into International Boxing Hall of Fame

In 2021, Floyd Mayweather Jr. was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

2021: Sportico's All-Time Athlete Earnings List

In November 2021, Sportico released an all-time athlete earnings list, in which Mayweather ranked no. 6 of all time, totaling an inflation-adjusted $1.2 billion in his career.