30 little-known facts about Floyd Mayweather Jr.

26. Mayweather’s uncle, Roger, is a former world champion

It’s no secret that Floyd Mayweather Jr. comes from a fighting family, and his uncle Roger — known as the “Black Mamba,” as well as a brief, self-appointed “Mexican Assassin” moniker — was the most successful of his boxing brothers. Roger Mayweather (59-13, 35 KOs) won world titles in two weight classes, and he carried genuine explosiveness in his vaunted right hand.

Mayweather’s first major title reign began when he captured the WBA super featherweight strap in 1983, but he would lose the belt via first-round knockout to Rocky Lockridge in his third defense. To make matters worse, Mayweather’s next title opportunity would result in the Grand Rapids boxer getting blitzed in two rounds by the great Julio Cesar Chavez.

This winding road would ultimately serve as a prelude to Mayweather’s solid run as WBC super lightweight champion, which saw him successfully retain his title on four occasions before he again ran into the seemingly indomitable Chavez; this time, though, Mayweather, despite trailing on points, would last 10 rounds before retiring on his stool (citing stomach cramps). Remarkably, Mayweather’s last world title challenge would come in his 66th career bout, where he actually managed to go the distance with a 14-0 Kostya Tszyu.

Mayweather’s lengthy and colorful fighting days would serve as a compelling springboard to his work as a trainer. He of course cornered Floyd Mayweather Jr., which was especially crucial during his nephew’s prolonged estrangement from Floyd Sr., and Roger guided “Money” during a defining stretch of his career. Post-boxing, legal and health issues have dogged Roger Mayweather, a thrilling but flawed fighter from one of the sport’s most notorious families.