Crayton's made his professional debut on April 7, of 1994, chalking up a knockout win against Agustin Rocha.
However, Crayton pulled himself together and strung together 12 consecutive wins before falling at the hands of Derrick Gainer in January 1996.
By this time Crayton was considered a high-level journeyman, and saw action against such established pros as Javier Leon, John John Molina, Arnulfo Castillo, Gabriel Ruelas, and in a fight for the WBF lightweight title, Juan Lazcano.
On September 26 of 1997 Crayton faced rising prospect Jumping Johnny Montantes in Las Vegas.
[2] Crayton missed no time in the ring, and even put together a five-bout winning streak in the wake of Montantes' death, culminating in a match against Golden Johnson for the NABF lightweight title.