Overview
Roger Mayweather (April 24, 1961 – March 17, 2020) was an American professional boxer and later a prominent trainer. Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, he fought professionally from 1981 until 1999 and remained active in boxing as a trainer through 2020. A member of the Mayweather boxing family, he combined in-ring success with a long coaching career, most notably guiding his nephew Floyd Mayweather Jr. during key stages of the younger fighter's development.
Fighting career and style
Roger earned a reputation as a compact, aggressive fighter with notable punching power for his weight classes; he fought under the nickname "Black Mamba." Competing across multiple divisions, he captured world titles at different weights and was recognized for his toughness, straightforward tactics, and ability to finish fights. His professional career spanned nearly two decades and included bouts at super featherweight, light welterweight and welterweight levels.
Championships and achievements
Mayweather was a two-weight world champion. His major recognized belts included:
- WBA and lineal super featherweight titles (1983–1984) — the lineal connection is a traditional way to trace a divisional champion's succession (lineal).
- WBC light welterweight title (1987–1989).
- IBO light welterweight (1994) and IBO welterweight (1994–1995) crowns.
These titles reflect his ability to move between weight classes while remaining competitive at world level.
Role as trainer and family connections
After retiring from full-time competition, Roger became a respected trainer and cornerman. He came from a boxing household: his brothers include Floyd Mayweather Sr. and Jeff Mayweather, and his nephew is Floyd Mayweather Jr. Roger worked extensively with Floyd Jr. between 2000 and 2012, contributing to tactical preparation, conditioning and fight strategy during an era when Floyd Jr. established himself as one of the sport's leading pound-for-pound fighters.
Later life and death
In later years Roger remained involved in boxing as a mentor and trainer. He died on March 17, 2020 in Las Vegas, Nevada, at age 58 from complications related to diabetes. His passing prompted tributes across the boxing community, reflecting both his accomplishments in the ring and his influence on younger fighters.
Legacy and notable facts
Roger Mayweather is remembered for bridging two roles in boxing: accomplished competitor and effective trainer. He is often credited with passing practical ring experience to the next generation and helping to sustain the Mayweather family's prominence in the sport. While his career included highs and lows typical of long professional careers, his dual legacy as champion and coach endures in discussions of boxing families and multi-generational involvement in the sport.