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via Getty

via Getty

Floyd Mayweather was quick to express his potential to the boxing world. Over the course of his career, he saw immense success and retired with an unbeaten record of 50-0. The American fighter ventured through several weight classes and became a five-division champion.

However, the entire journey began when 19-year-old Floyd Mayweather made his professional debut against Roberto Apodaca in 1996. After registering his first win, he went on a journey, conquering 16 world champions and several other elites. In an astonishing fact, no one could even draw a bout against him.

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50 men had tried and failed. These included combat personalities ranging from pro-boxers to the two-division UFC champion, Conor McGregor. While a 44-year-old Floyd Mayweather is still looking for exhibition fights, here’s a look back at his first professional appearance.

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Floyd Mayweather vs Roberto Apodaca- Money Show Begins

Following a stellar amateur career, Mayweather laced up the gloves against Apodaca on October 11 at the Texas Station Casino in Las Vegas. Elite Promoter Bob Arum organized the event, headlined by Johnny Tapia vs Sammy Stewart for the WBO super flyweight belt.

However, Floyd Mayweather grabbed most of the spotlight with his sensational KO win. Often criticized for not being a knockout puncher, Mayweather began his career with a stoppage. Moreover, it was a short-lived fight since Mayweather took just two rounds to win.

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The four-round super featherweight contest saw both men indulge in action from the first round. However, Mayweather, who looked promising, appeared the aggressor. Roberto Apodaca came ahead with some hard shots, but Mayweather was quick to dodge. In response, ‘Pretty Boy Floyd’ also landed some sharp jabs.

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The fight could have ended in the first round as Mayweather forced his rival to take a knee. However, there was no coming back from the brutal left hook which condemned Apodaca to the canvas in the second round.

How well do you remember Floyd Mayweather’s boxing debut? Did you envision him attaining the success he did?