To commemorate Floyd Mayweather Jr. making his professional debut 20 years ago today, we're reliving his last knockout on his unblemished 49-0 record. The pride of Grand Rapids, Michigan, was tasked with a fight against fellow American Victor Ortiz for the WBC and lineal welterweight titles at the iconic MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The pair of fighters fought in 2011 with the fight ending in bizarre finish via the infamous "Sucker Punch KO." The self-proclaimed 'Money' won via a fourth round KO to extend his unbeaten record to 42 fights though in controversial manner, to say the least.
Mayweather was bossing the bout until Ortiz found some success in the fourth by landing a few meaningful shots before bulling him into the corner. Oritz then deliberately headbutted Mayweather busting open a cut. Per the rule book, Ortiz was given a 1-point deduction. And rightfully so. Then the crazy shit! Seemingly acknowledging his wrongdoing, Ortiz proceeded to overdo the apology by excessively hugging and kissing Mayweather, then embraced yet again.
(Referee motions that Ortiz delivered a head butt to Mayweather)
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As they separated, Ortiz had his hands on his side (boxing's biggest crime) and Mayweather dished out a thumping left-hook to the unprotected Ortiz followed by a ferocious right-hand putting him down, who was unable to beat referee's Joe Cortez's count. Protect yourself at all times, Victor.
Was it an illegal blow? Nope. It was legal. Was it unsportsmanlike? Yes. Some boxing fans have no problem with it while some are blaming the referee for not being totally in control, but I don't think anyone is totally blaming Mayweather, and they really shouldn't be.
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Boxing, Floyd Mayweather