LAS VEGAS Former New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg emerged from behind the protective shield of a $300 million-plus advertising blitz on Wednesday night, stepping into the limelight of a nationally televised debate alongside five rivals spoiling for a fight.

The result wasnt pretty. The media and financial services mogul got pummeled in the presidential debate over his record of allegedly sexist comments and behavior, his racist policing practices, his failure to release his tax returns , his support for Republicans , and his efforts to buy his way into the Democratic primary.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) led the charge , delivering a haymaker in her opening remarks.

Id like to talk about who were running against, a billionaire who calls women fat broads and horse-faced lesbians. And no, Im not talking about Donald Trump . Im talking about Mayor Bloomberg, Warren said, prompting audible gasps from the audience at the Paris Theater.

Bloombergs alleged treatment of women went on to become the richest source of material for his adversaries.

Moderator Hallie Jackson initiated the biggest fireworks of the night when she asked Bloomberg to explain his comments defending allegations from former female employees who say he created a hostile work environment. Bloomberg, she noted, reportedly defended some of his sexist comments by saying, Thats the way I grew up, and allegedly told one former female employee, I would do you in a second.

Bloomberg was visibly flustered, asking for his full minute and a quarter to respond. But he did not address the specific claims, instead falling back on figures demonstrating the success of women in his corporate empire.

I am very proud of the fact that about two weeks ago, we were voted the best place to work the second-best place in America, he said. If that doesnt say something about our employees and how happy they are, I dont know what does.

Jackson turned to Warren, noting that the senator had been especially critical of Bloomberg.

I hope you heard what his defense was: Ive been nice to some women, she said, prompting loud applause and cheers from the crowd.