On September 19, 2009, Floyd Mayweather Jr. fought Juan Manuel Marquez in a welterweight bout at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada. Mayweather, who had been retired since June 6, 2008, returned to the ring after a 21-month layoff. Marquez, who had never fought above the 135-pound lightweight limit, entered the fight as The Ring Magazine World Lightweight Champion and the publication's No. 2 pound-for-pound fighter.
The fight began with Mayweather in control, using his superior speed and defense to avoid Marquez's punches. Despite Marquez's efforts to close the distance and land punches, Mayweather was able to counter with his own shots and take the first few rounds on the scorecards.
The disparity between the two fighters grew in the sixth round as Mayweather began landing a lead right hand that wobbled Marquez, who had begun bleeding from the nose. Marquez was simply unable to land against the supremely quick Mayweather, who either dodged the attack outright or shoulder rolled it with ease.
In the ninth round, Mayweather landed a left hook that sent Marquez to the canvas. Marquez was able to get back up and continue fighting, but he was clearly hurt and outclassed by Mayweather. The fight went the full 12 rounds, with Mayweather winning a unanimous decision on the scorecards.
The fight was originally scheduled for July 18th but was postponed due to a rib injury suffered by Mayweather. Mayweather was guaranteed $10 million, and Marquez was guaranteed $3.2 million. Each fighter also got a percentage of the pay-per-view profits. The fight was broadcast on HBO Pay-Per-View and promoted by Mayweather Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions.
