the 1980’s.
A Look Back.
Introduction.
Chapter 1. 1980
Chapter 2. 1981
Chapter 3. 1982
Chapter 4. 1983
Chapter 5. 1984
Chapter 6. 1985
Chapter 7. 1986
Chapter 8. 1987
Chapter 9 1988
Chapter 10. 1989
Conclusion.
Extras.
Introduction.
Whether it was Ronald Reagan taking over the
Presidency, the movie ET “The Extraterrestrial,” or the
collapse of the Soviet Union, the 1980’s were indeed
exciting. That decade also brought boxing fans many
great fights that left them on the edge of their seats. It was
time when names like Larry Holmes “The Easton
Assassin,” Thomas “Hitman" Hearns, Ray “Boom Boom”
Mancini, Aaron "The Hawk" Pryor and Michael
"Dynamite” Dokes were becoming prominent in the boxing
world. It was also a time when boxing went from network
television to cable and long before the internet fans
followed boxing news through magazines. It may have
been an era since gone by but for fans of the pugilistic
drama it was indeed action packed. A decade not only
great for appreciative boxing fans lucky enough to
experience first hand, but just as good to look back and
reflect on.
Chapter 1. 1980
The year 1980 began with a “Roar” for boxing fans.
Nicaragua’s Alexis Arguello the current WBC Super
Featherweight Champion and the pride of his native county
Nicaragua defended his Title on January 20th, in Tucson,
Arizona. His opponent, Ruben Castillo had an incredible
record of 47 wins with 0 losses. Arguello as a fighter was
always in great shape for bouts and relentless in his attack
of his opponents. For this bout, he again rose to the
occasion and slowly wore down the game challenger and
stopped him by an eleventh round knockout. He retained
his Title and improved his record to 66 wins with 5 losses.
Arguello, who was reaching his peak as a fighter was
becoming so dominant his bouts were more an exhibition
of his skills rather than competitive bouts. He seemed
unbeatable in the ring. Two months later he continued his
winning streak and in a non-title bout beat Gerald Hayes
and the following month with his Title at stake stopped
Roland Navarrette in a knockout in five rounds. Arguello’s
career was on the rise and he was becoming known as one
of boxing’s best pound-for-pound fighters.
Featherweight boxer Salvador Sanchez from Santiago
Tianguistenco, Mexico, was a talented fighter proving to
the world of boxing he was not another “South American
flash in the pan.” On February 2nd, he won a unanimous
decision to capture the WBC Featherweight Title from
Danny Lopez. In his first Title defense on March 12th, he
defeated challenger Ruben Castillo by unanimous decision.
The former champion Danny Lopez was still hoping to
avenge his loss and regain his title. He was granted a
quick rematch on June 21st. A rematch the public and
media wanted to see. The bout was a hard fought battle
and Sanchez used the ring and solid boxing skills to win by
an eleventh round knockout. Sanchez seemed like he could
do not wrong in the ring. He maintained the momentum
and later that year defended his Title by soundly defeating
Patrick Ford and Juan La Porte by decisions. With him
winning the Titles and successfully defending it four times
Salvador Sanchez was becoming the pride of his native
country Mexico and a force to be reckoned with as a
fighter. His record now stood at 38 wins, with 1
loss and 1 draw. Career-wise 1980 was a great year for
him.
No division garners more interest than the
heavyweight division. Larry Holmes nicknamed the
“Easton Assassin” held the WBC version of the
Heavyweight Title he had won in an exciting contest with
Ken Norton. On March 31st of 1980, in a bout carried on
network television he faced a challenge from Leroy Jones
who stood six-foot-five and weighed 254 pounds. Jones
had a professional record of 24 wins, with 0 losses and 1
draw. Prior to this title bout Jones’s most impressive
victory was a twelve round decision win over Mike
Weaver. Jones had good boxing skills and used the ring
well despite his size. Whether or not he could win a bout
with Holmes was questionable. The bout began with
Holmes, a skilled boxer using his “cast iron” jab to keep
Jones off balance. Jones could never solve the jab issue
and as the fight wore on Holmes picked up the pace and
began landing some right hands. After eight rounds, the
accumulation of blows showed on Jones’s legs. They
turned to “rubber” and he had to lean into the ropes to
remain standing. The referee seeing this rightfully stopped
the fight. Another victory for the unheralded yet talented
Larry Holmes, the Heavyweight Champion of theWorld.
Also on that same day in March in the heavyweight
division another battle took place. “Big” John Tate from
Knoxville, Tennessee, held the WBA Heavyweight Title
and was undefeated in 20 bouts. Standing six-feet-four and
weighing 240 pounds he was true “Giant.” As a fighter he
had a good jab, a big right hand and sound fundamental
boxing skills. His opponent and title challenger was Mike
Weaver from Diamond Bar, California. Career-wise
Weaver had had an inconsistent career. He started slow
then picked up the pace as he improved. He was a big
puncher who lacked defensive skills and seem to win and
lose in no predictable pattern. Nicknamed “Hercules”
Weaver was heavily muscled and always showed up for
fights in great shape. Against Tate, he was given marginal
chance to win, however, with his punching power he at
least had a puncher’s chance. The fight was shown on
network television and drew a large audience. During
the bout Tate mostly used his jab and right hand to keep the
shorter and stockier Weaver at bay. Weaver attempted to
lung in but could not seem to get close enough to land solid
punches on Tate. Tate, being smart used movement and the
ring to his advantage. This pace was maintained for the
duration of the bout until late in the fifteenth and final
round. In that round Weaver who was way behind on the
scorecards and needed a knockout to win landed a picture
perfect left hook to the head of Tate. Tate, not moving at
time absorbed the whole punch which knocked him totally
unconscious. In one of the more oddities the sport of
boxing as ever seen; Tate the “Giant” at six-foot-four and
weighing 240 pounds was standing fully up-right yet was
unconscious. He then fell to the canvas. His fall was
slow, ponderous and similar to a huge “tree” crashing into
the ground. It was a sight to be-hold and transfixed the
viewing audience. He never beat the count and Weaver
scored a tremendous come from behind knockout victory.
He now held the WBA version of the Heavyweight Title
and was officially a Heavyweight Champion. The knockout
of Tate, because of it‘s dramatic nature was a knockout
fans would always remember. It was a “classic” and the
victim John Tate, never escaped the stigma attached to it.
It followed him for the remainder of his career and up until
his untimely death at age 43.
In April “Marvelous” Marvin Hagler, a multi-faceted
middleweight who had virtually no weaknesses as a fighter
avenged a controversial decision loss to Bobby Watts.
Hagler, a big and consistent puncher stopped him in an
impressive second round knockout. It was an excellent
showing for Hagler but despite the win he remained
only marginally popular and marketable. Not having an
Olympic Gold Medal and lacking the charisma of other
fighters he never had a large fan base. He was
regularly turned down for fights and getting a title shot had
become a problem. But he put all that behind him when on
September 27th, 1980, he challenged then WBC and WBA
Middleweight Champion Alan Minter for his Titles in
England. Hagler was fighting outside his own country and
in someone else’s backyard yet he still delivered and
stopped Minter in three rounds to win the Titles after a cut
on Minter opened up. The crowd, unhappy with the
outcome rioted. Hagler and his camp had to cover
themselves to avoid all the stuff being thrown into the ring
by disgruntled fans, but the victory stood. With this win
Hagler was now the undisputed Middleweight Champion.
A Title he earned and rightfully deserved.
The year’s most popular bout took place on June 20th.
Two warriors from different countries clashed. Both
fighters were still in their prime, although they were from
different eras. Sugar Ray Leonard, a 1976 gold medallist
for the United States, was a media darling and undefeated
in 23 fights. As a fighter he had “lightning” quick hand
and foot speed that left his opponents dumbfounded. As a
boxing personality, he had it all, good looks, excellent
communication skills and a growing fan base. If he could
defeat Panamanian great Roberto Duran the “Hands of
Stone” who had recently moved up to welterweight
Leonard could achieve greatness in the sport early on in
his career. Duran, who had an incredible record of 71
wins with only 1 loss, was not only the pride of his native
country Panama but of all of Latin America. The bout
between these two fighters took place in Montreal,
Canada, and was highly anticipated by fans and media. It
is was labeled, “The Brawl in Montreal"and it was for the
WBC Welterweight Title that Leonard held. The night of
the fight “electricity” was in the air. Fans and media could
not wait for these two fighters to begin to fight. When the
two fighters met in the center of the ring for the pre-fight
instructions Sugar Ray Leonard and Roberto Duran eyed
each other at point blank range and neither blinked nor had
any doubt they would not emerge victorious. The bell rang
and the two fighters slowly but cautiously engaged in
battle. The first round Duran did a lot rushing in making an
effort to land on Leonard. Leonard was letting Duran get
too close. In the second round Leonard got caught with a
Duran overhand right. Leonard took it in full stride and he
shook his head to indicate he was not hurt. The fight
progressed with each fighter having their moments. But
Leonard at times naively stood “toe to toe” with the
stronger Duran who wanted to do battle in close. Leonard,
a boxer, needed to use the ring more but instead fought a
slugfest rather than and a boxer’s fight. After fifteen
intense rounds with neither fighter giving in, the decision
was announced. Although close, it went to Duran by split
decision. Duran had done it. He had beaten the younger
Leonard and now held the WBC Welterweight Title and
was perhaps pound- for-pound the best fighter in the world.
It was a time for him and his Latino American fans to
celebrate. Leonard who experienced his first professional
loss needed to learn from it and go forward. Boxing fans
and media had not heard the last of Sugar Ray Leonard as a
fighter. He still had a future in the sport of boxing.
The rematch between Sugar Ray Leonard and Roberto
Duran much like their first meeting was highly anticipated
by fans and media. It also defined the unpredictable nature
of boxing. Duran, while celebrating from his big victory
over Leonard had ballooned up to 195 pounds. He was
seriously overweight and out of shape. Leonard, upon
hearing of Duran’s condition was anxious for a quick
rematch. He even actually ignored advice from both
his trainers not to fight Duran so quickly. The rematch
between the two was set for November 20th and Duran had
to diet for weeks to make the 147 pound weight limit. He
made the weight limit but physically was not in top fighting
form. In the ring this time around Leonard capitalized on
Duran’s lackluster condition and also employed a new
strategy. He moved constantly and never stood toe-to- toe
with Duran. This new fighting style enabled him to
easily out-box and frustrate the “Hands of Stone.”
Leonard not only was winning the fight but he taunted
Duran in the ring who quit in the middle of the seventh
round. Duran later claimed his body had cramped up due
to the crash dieting but most felt he was frustrated and not
wanting to lose badly just called it quits. This bout
between Leonard and Duran became known as the famous
“No Mas,” the words Duran uttered when he quit. For
Leonard, he had now avenged his only loss in stunning
fashion and re-captured the WBC Welterweight Title. Both
were major achievements for him career-wise and he was
now recognized by many as pound-for-pound the best
fighter in the world.
Aaron Pryor from Cincinnati, Ohio, was a relatively
unknown fighter slowly making his way in the sport. He
utilized an unusual fighting style. He overwhelmed his
opponents in a relentless attack that lacked proper boxing
technique. It was different, but was working. Pryor,
always in great shape for bouts and determined not to lose
had accumulated a record of 24 wins with 0 losses. On
August 2nd, in his first try at a title he won the WBA
Light Welterweight Title with a fourth round knockout of
Antonio Cervantes. Despite winning a Title and a great
record Pryor still had not captured the recognition from
boxing fans and media that he deserved. Many thought
he could not retain his Title. His style of boxing was just
too out of control. A talented boxer or big puncher could
easily defeat him and lead to his demise as a top boxer.
The bout that year that really spelled the end of an era
was the Muhammad Ali versus Larry Holmes bout. It took
place on October 2nd and Ali at age 38 was trying to re-
capture the glory of his youth when he fought then
Champion Larry Holmes. Ali, always a fan and media
favorite drew interest to what probably would be his last
“hurrah.” Unfortunately for the bout he did little else as his
skill level which largely depended on his hand speed and
footwork were no longer there fighting at his age. In the
bout with Holmes, Ali was continually hit by a much
younger and faster fighter. It really was a mismatch and
bad night for the sport of boxing. After ten rounds Ali’s
corner would not let him out for the next round and the
bout was stopped. The era of Ali, always boxing’s
premiere showman officially came to an end. Holmes won
easily and retained his Title.
Other fighters also made their made their mark in boxing
that year. One was heavyweight Gerry Cooney. Cooney, a
prospect from New York rose to a new level. He stopped
perennial heavyweight contender Ron Lyle in one round
with a devastating punch to the body. Cooney nicknamed
“Gentlemen” had tremendous knockout power. As a
fighter the Irish heavyweight seemed like a media and fan
magnet. Everyone wanted to know about his career
progress. His popularity and marketing skills were just
immense despite his quiet nature. That same year a
skinny youngster from Detroit named Thomas “Hitman”
Hearns with a record of 28 wins and 0 losses won the
WBA Welterweight Title with a knockout victory of
Pipino Cuevas in two rounds. Fans and boxing media
were intrigued by the fighter from Detroit. Despite his
physique he possessed tremendous punching power. Also,
a heavyweight named Michael “Dynamite” Dokes from
Akron, Ohio, was slowly making some noise in the
division. He was an amateur star who at age 17 once
lost a split decision to Cuban great Teofilio Stevenson.
Professionally Dokes had a record of 18 wins, with 0 loses
and 1 draw. His lone draw he avenged in a rematch
winning by a first round knockout. Many consider him to
the heir-apparent heavyweight champion.
Other noteworthy fights of that year were Bobby
“Schoolboy” Chacon’s split decision win in ten rounds over
Rafael Limon. Heavyweight on the rise Randall “Tex”
Cobb had a good showing by stopping Earnie Shavers in
eight rounds. Cobb, a former football player from Texas
had a future in the division if he could keep wining. So far
he was undefeated in seventeen professional bouts. Lastly,
Hector Camacho and amateur star Tony Tucker both made
their pro-debuts that year. Camacho, fighting as a super
featherweight won a four round decision over David Brown
and Tucker fighting in the heavyweight ranks stopped
Chuck Gardner in three rounds. Tucker’s bout was shown
on network television.
Chapter 2. 1981
During the year 1981 Larry Holmes continued his mode
of destruction in the heavyweight ranks. On April 14th, he
faced Jamaican heavyweight Trevor Berbick. As a pro
Berbick had a record of 18 wins, with 1 loss and 1 draw.
He stood six-foot-three, weighed 215 pounds and was well
conditioned. In the ring he was a puncher and his resume
included a victory over “Big” John Tate in which he
knocked Tate out “cold. For Holmes, Berbick was no
pushover. During the bout, as usual, Holmes used his jab
and movement to build a lead. But Berbick had his
moments in the ring that night. At one point he had
Holmes on the ropes covering up as he landed a “barrage”
of punches. Also, he taunted Holmes by telling him “ I am
not Ali.” Berbick eventually lost a fifteen round decision
but he gave a good account of himself that night. With the
win Holmes retained his Title and improved his record to
37 wins with 0 losses.
On May 23rd, Wilfred Benitez, the “Puerto Rican”
phenomenon did something no boxer professionally had
ever done before. He captured three different
championship belts in different divisions. The third one he
won when he fought Maurice Hope for the WBC Light
Middleweight Title. During the bout Benitez boxed
brilliantly using fast reflexes to avoid punches and at the
same time landing many of his own. He was clearly
leading on the scorecards and en–route to a well deserved
victory when in the twelfth round he landed a knockout
punch to the head of Maurice Hope. Hope went straight to
the canvas. Benitez a few fights earlier experienced his
first pro loss. He needed a major victory to put the loss
behind him and was so jubilant upon seeing Hope hit the
canvas he remained motionless over him smiling knowing
he had won and the Title was his. A “classic” moment in
time boxing fans will always remember. It was quite
showing for a 22-year old Wilfred Benitez. With his
success in the boxing ring he had become the pride of
Puerto Rico and despite his youth was already a
boxing “Legend.”
Salvador Sanchez, Mexico’s premiere fighter had four
fights in 1981. He won all four establishing himself as
boxing’s best featherweight fighter. On March 22nd, he
successfully defended his Title by stopping Roberto
Castanon in a tenth round knockout. In July, in a non-title
bout he won a ten round decision over Nick Perez. In his
most impressive win of the year Sanchez was matched
against a legend from Puerto Rico named Wilfred Gomez.
Gomez, a former titleholder was undefeated with a record
of 32 wins, with 0 losses and 1 draw. Gomez offered
Sanchez a stiff test and many boxing fans and media felt
Gomez could beat Sanchez and take his Title. But
Sanchez, a consummate professional outboxed Gomez and
stopped him by knockout in eight rounds. Sanchez proved
his critics wrong and this bout really brought him the credit
and recognition he deserved from the boxing community.
Later that year Sanchez again defended his Title by
winning a split decision over Pat Cowdell. 1981 was
without a doubt a “great” year for the Mexican
Featherweight. He went undefeated including a big victory
over Wilfred Gomez. An achievement many doubted he
would be able to accomplish.
Network television with its large audiences is always an
avenue for boxers to emerge and shine for the public and it
was just that for the “Irish” heavyweight from New York
named Gerry Cooney. On May 11th, at the boxing Mecca
Madison Square Garden he fought 35-year-old Ken Norton.
Norton, a former Heavyweight Champion, was once a
formidable force in the division. Could Cooney handle
such an experienced heavyweight was a question mark?
Norton’s style was unorthodox, he utilized a different
boxing defense and had good punching power. However,
Cooney in front of a huge television audience destroyed
Norton in one round. He landed so many quick punches
that the referee could not get in fast enough to stop the
fight. Norton was delirious with a “glazed” look in his
eyes after the accumulation of blows. The highlights of
the fight were shown repeatedly on sports shows. With the
big knockout win Cooney’s status as a heavyweight rose
quickly and his pay scale went way up also. Could the
"Giant” from New York land a title shot at then
Heavyweight Champion Larry Holmes and dethrone him?
Boxing fans were looking forward to finding out.
Marvin Hagler the WBA and WBC Middleweight
Champion was dominating his division thoroughly.
Challengers were mere push-overs as he just kept
winning. On June 13th, he fought challenger Vito
Auterferno. Hagler, a true professional and clearly the best
middleweight in the world won handedly. He knocked
Auterferno down in the third round and after five rounds
did so much damage to Auterferno's face that the bout had
to be stopped. Hagler, with his skills could easily be
described as pound- for-pound the best fighter in the world.
For boxing fans and media to really fully appreciate
Haglers’ skills he needed an opponent that was a solid foe,
with name recognition and that was a popular with the
media and fans. To a degree Thomas Hearns or Sugar Ray
Leonard fit this description but first they needed to move
up to his division. Currently Hagler was running out of
formidable challengers.
Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini, a vigorous brawler from
Youngstown, Ohio, scored his first win over a top
contender on July 19th. He defeated Jose Luis Rameriez in
twelve rounds. For Mancini, who was slowly closing in on
a title shot this bout proved he could beat top competition
in his division? Most of his previous opponents were
lower-tier-fighters but Rameriez was an experienced
veteran with a good record. However, Mancini’s style of
fighting which involved relentless punching was currently
working, but whether or not he could go all the way and
win a world title was questionable. Could he go fifteen
rounds at such a pace, also, how good was his chin?
Theses were questions that boxing fans and media were
asking.
Later that year Ray Mancini’s quest for a title shot was
finally achieved. On October 3rd he challenged WBC
Lightweight Champion Alexis Arguello for the Title.
Arguello, a streaking star in the boxing world was a
formidable Champion for any challenger. Could Mancini
who had a large fan base beat a “Legend” in Alexis
Arguello? Boxing insiders had doubts. Many felt
Mancini’s was too inexperienced and did not posses the
right style to accommodate Arguello. The bout which drew
fans and media was what most expected. Mancini was
relentless in his attack but Arguello boxed him and being
smart brought the fight into later rounds. Mancini had
never gone past twelve rounds previously and after an
exhausting fourteen rounds he had all that he could handle.
Arguello won by knockout and retained his Title, but
Mancini gained some credibility for his efforts. He fought
valiantly against a Legend. Mancini was temporarily set
back career-wise but boxing fans would hear more about
him quite soon.
On June 12th, Larry Holmes demolished former
Heavyweight Champion Leon Spinks in three brutal
rounds. Holmes used his reach and jab to keep Spinks at
bay and Spinks, undersized, fought recklessly trying to get
inside. His brother Michael, also a pro-fighter seeing his
brother losing badly threw in the towel to prevent the
fight from going any further. Holmes again successfully
retained his Title and amongst the boxing community there
was the sentiment that no–one in the heavyweight division
could beat him.
In November, Holmes again in another challenge to his
Title faced a prospect from Yonkers, New York, named
Renaldo Snipes. Snipes, whose record stood at 22 wins
with 0 losses had a big right hand and had withstood a war
with top rated heavyweight Gerrie Coetzee winning by split
decision. Could Snipes finally be the fighter that gives
Holmes a good fight or perhaps even dethrone him? The
bout held on the 16th of November was indeed action
oriented. Snipes was able to land his jab and right hand on
the Champion Holmes. Although Holmes was ahead in
the scoring fighting a style of using the ring and his jab
which was his trademark, the bout was still competitive
with Snipes holding his own. In the seventh round Snipes
landed a big right hand and Holmes, for only the second
time in his career was knocked down. The crowd “roared”
upon seeing the Champion hit the canvas. Snipes raised his
hands in “victory.” Could the challenger Renaldo Snipes
pull out the big upset? Holmes beat the count but was
“groggy” and still in serious trouble. He made it to the
ropes, composed himself and the bout continued. Snipes
rushed Holmes throwing punches hoping to catch him
again. The crowd watched closely in anticipation of a
knockout. Despite his best efforts Snipes could not
follow up and land cleanly on him. Holmes survived the
round. In fact Holmes did more than just survive, he
actually picked up the pace. Fighting behind his jab and
right hand he stopped Snipes by knockout in the eleventh
round. He landed a flurry of punches that sent Snipes
backward and the referee stopped the bout. Snipes
furiously protested and in a post-fight interview some
extra-curricular activity took place between Holmes
and Snipes. However, the stoppage was final and Holmes,
who had to come off the canvas to win a tough bout,
retained his Title. Snipes had a good showing in a losing
effort and was actually one punch away from being
heavyweight champion of the world.
The bout that year that could easily be described as the
year’s most exciting was the classic battle between “Sugar”
Ray Leonard and Thomas “Hitman” Hearns. Hearns who
had a record of 32 wins with 0 losses was the WBA
Welterweight Champion. Leonard meanwhile had a
record of 30 wins with 1 loss and held the WBC version of
the Welterweight Title. The winner of the bout would
unify the titles and be known as the undisputed
welterweight champion of the world. Leonard, always
popular with fans and media career-wise was on a roll.
The previous year he avenged his only loss in a rematch
with Duran. He frustrated him to such a degree he just quit
in the seventh round. In the ring Leonard was a skillful
boxer and although not a big puncher he was a consistent
puncher. Hearns was a knockout artist and had won a title
but had not fought the elite in the weight class yet. The
bout with Leonard was his biggest test in the ring so far. A
victory would propel him to the top of the sport. The fight
was held on September 16th and no real consensus amongst
fans or boxing media emerged as to who would win. It
was a toss up. When the bell rang to begin the contest each
fighter was cautious. Early on Leonard used the ring to
box and stay on the outside and win the early rounds.
Hearns however picked up the pace in the middle rounds
and began to unleash his jab and quick right hand catching
Leonard several times. Leonard was frustrated and began
losing the rounds when out of nowhere he “hurt” Hearns
whose legs buckled. Leonard rushed in try to knock out
him out but Hearns survived the round. Then Hearns again
used his jab and movement to outbox Leonard and gain the
lead in scoring. As the fight went into the latter stages the
rounds were still going to Hearns and in between the
thirteenth and fourteenth round Angelo Dundee gave
Leonard some good advice. Leonard’s eye was swollen
and he was behind on points. He needed a knockout to
win. Hearns, by mistake had come into the bout
underweight at 145 pounds. A full two pounds less than
the welterweight limit. With the intensity of the bout and
fighting under the “heat” of the ring lights, being two
pounds underweight for Hearns was crucial. It affected his
stamina and his ability to block punches to defend himself.
He was beginning to fatigue and was “vulnerable.” In
the fourteenth round following the advice of Dundee who
told him “he was blowing it,” Leonard gamely tried to
knock Herans out. He went wild in a flurry of punches on
Hearns who did not hold or cover up properly and began to
lose his legs. Hearns, falling into the ropes after the
“flurry” was badly hurt and the referee was forced to stop
the bout. The crowd went “crazy.” Leonard, with a
swollen eye did the impossible in the fight. He came from
behind and won by knockout. Had the bout gone to a
decision he would have lost. He now held the both
Welterweight Titles and he handed Thomas Hearns his
first career loss. For Leonard who also had a victory over
Roberto Duran and Wilfred Benitez, it was perhaps his
biggest career win and for Hearns, a frustrating loss. A loss
that defined a major portion of his early career and took
years for him to overcome.
The famous welterweight clash between the youthful
combatants Leonard and Hearns in 1981 was as
entertaining as any boxing match could be. It had it all,
two great adversaries, a fight that went back and forth and
an incredible come from behind knockout. The bout has
always been a fan favorite and is indeed a fight from the
1980’s that was a “classic.”
In other boxing news that year Davey More defeated
Kevin Rooney in seven rounds in a welterweight bout.
Both fighters were still unknowns but they would later
become prominent names in the world of professional
boxing. Also, Tim Witherpoon, a rising heavyweight who
used to spar with Muhammad Ali had seven fights winning
them all and improved his record to 13 wins with 0 losses.
In the middleweight division James “Black Gold” Schuler
had five fights. He won each one and now had a record of
8 wins with 0 losses.
Chapter 3. 1982
The month of January 1982 saw two Latino warriors meet
to see who owned the 154-pound Light Middleweight Title.
Duran, once considered invincible career-wise had begun to
slow down. He was slightly older and heavier than he was
in years past and he had suffered some career setbacks.
In the big rematch with Sugar Ray Leonard he had simply
quit and he was notoriously known for gaining weight
between bouts. Benitez, who also had lost to Leonard
held the WBC Light Middleweight Title and was younger,
faster and hoping to perhaps get a rematch with Leonard.
The bout between Benitez and Duran was only marginally
competitive. Duran, seemed slow and could not solve the
defense of Benitez who outboxed him for a fifteen round
decision. For Benitez, the bout kept him in the rankings of
boxing’s best pound- for- pound and improved his record to
44 wins, with 1 loss and 1 draw.
As summer approached boxing fans were treated to a
much anticipated and classic match up. “Gentlemen”
Gerry Cooney who stood six-foot-six and weighed 225
pounds was sporting a perfect record of 25 wins with 0
losses in the professional ranks. He was ready for a title
shot. The current WBC Heavyweight Champion Larry
Holmes was still in his prime but lately had literally run
out of viable challengers. Cooney, the “Giant” from New
York was going to be the fighter that could provide him
with a formidable challenge for his Title and with his
drawing power a good payday as well. The classic
showdown which fans and media could not wait to see took
place on June 11th and was as action oriented as a
heavyweight boxing match can be. When the bell rang to
begin the bout Cooney, boxing carefully stalked Holmes
who wanted to avoid his “thunderous” punching power.
Holmes mostly retreated using his jab and the ring, but in
the second round he landed a right on Cooney who was hit
“cleanly” and he went straight to the canvas. Cooney rose
quickly and fought well despite the knockdown. Holmes,
perhaps one of the heavyweight division’s best ring
technicians boxed Cooney throughout the middle rounds.
Cooney had his moments though and at times was the
aggressor. Unfortunately he repeatedly hit Holmes low and
was deducted three points from the scorecards. Holmes, a
smart fighter, made it a point to bring the fight into late
rounds. For Cooney who had never gone past eight
rounds before this was “uncharted” territory. In the
thirteenth round the challenger Cooney, inexperienced and
fighting in the “sizzling” heat of the Nevada desert and
under the “hot” ring lights simply ran out of stamina. He
could no longer defend himself and was just target
practice for Holmes. Also, his once “handsome” face
which adorned the covers of magazines and fight
programs clearly showed the effects of the bout. His left
eye was visibly bruised and reddened as was his nose
from absorbing so punches. As a fighter Cooney was
completely out of resources and he fell backwards
into the ropes. Upon seeing this his corner stopped the
fight. Despite his valiant effort Cooney’s quest to win the
Heavyweight Championship of the World had failed.
Holmes had won and it was a tremendous victory.
Finally after years of dominating the heavyweight ranks
Holmes got the recognition he rightfully deserved from the
boxing media and fans. Career-wise it was his biggest
payday and most satisfying win. His just due. Holmes
was without question a true “Legend” in the ring.
The year 1982 was another good year and tragic one for
Featherweight Salvador Sanchez. Earlier in the year he
successfully defended his WBC Featherweight Title against
Jorge Garcia winning a unanimous decision. In his next
and unfortunately his last fight on July 21st, he stopped
Challenger Azumah Nelson by a fifth round knockout.
This improved his record to 44 wins, with 1 lose and 1
draw. He died 23 days after his bout with Nelson via car-
wreck. The boxing community was saddened at the loss of
one of their own. Sanchez’s later received substantial post–
humus recognition from fans and media for his
achievements in the ring and is widely considered to be one
of the best featherweights boxers ever.
No bout in the 1980’s displayed more excitement than
the incredible November 12th bout between Aaron Pryor
and Nicaragua’s Alexis Arguello. Pryor, the WBA Light
Welterweight Title holder had a record of 31 wins with 0
losses. He was still relatively unknown despite his great
record and owning a Title. For this fight he was stepping
up in class and was facing a challenge from Alexis
Arguello who at one time held the WBA Featherweight
Title, the WBC Super Featherweight Title and the WBC
Lightweight Title. Many felt Pryor, who still had not
faced the division’s best fighters would lose a bout with
Arguello. Pryor would not fare any better against Arguello
than Ray Mancini had. Arguello was not just another
fighter, he was a “Legend.” Could Pryor continue on his
winning streak and beat Arguello? A consensus as to who
would win could not be reached. To find out conclusively
they would have to fight. The bout was shown live on
ESPN and with much anticipation. The night of the fight
the crowd was visibly anxious waiting for these two
warriors to emerge from their dressing rooms. There was
actually “electricity” throughout the arena. When they did
enter the ring all eyes were focused on them as they
warmed up getting ready for the big fight. During the
pre-fight introductions the two fighters eyed each other
and Pryor pointed at Arguello trying to intimidate Arguello
and gain a psychological edge. The setting was set for a
night of boxing fans would always remember. When the
bell rang Pryor vigorously out-punched Arguello who
mostly covered up and when necessary retreated. On
occasion he found openings and landed on Pryor, but was
losing most of the rounds. Pryor continued his incredibly
high punch quota and through such gained the lead on the
scorecards. But the “Nicaraguan” was not going to lose
easily. As the middle rounds approached he began to
effectively counter-punch and rocked Pryor on several
occasions. At one point Pryor had to retreat after being hit
with a combination from Arguello. The crowd closely
followed the intense action in the ring. Often they “roared”
with excitement when blows were landed or one fighter
appeared to be in trouble. As the fight progressed Pryor
was beginning to run out of energy. Maintaining the pace
he was fighting became a difficult task. Slowly Arguello
was coming on in the fight. In the latter rounds the
scorecards began to get even when in the fourteenth Pryor
exploded with a “barrage” and had Arguello on the ropes.
The punches were relentless and quick. Up until this
point in the fight Arguello’s defense had been solid.
However the punches from Pryor this time around were
getting through. Arguello’s head began to “rock” as he
was repeatedly tagged by Pryor. It looked as though
Pryor might actually knock Arguello out. An achievement
career-wise that would “rocket” him to the top the sport
and bring him his biggest career win. With the crowd
cheering loudly Pryor continued the all out attack After
an accumulation of unanswered blows Arguello went
down to the canvas. He could not beat the count. The
fight was stopped and Arguello was unconscious. The
crowd which was still in “awe” due to the action during
the bout cheered loudly as Pryor raised his arms in victory.
Most could not believe what had taken place. The bout
was just an incredible contest with Pryor proving to all he
was for real as a Champion. The loser Arguello remained
unconscious until the broadcast went off the air but later
emerged all right. With the big win Pryor retained his
Title, improved his record to 32 wins with 0 losses and
now had new status in the boxing community.
The showdown involving Pryor and Arguello, with
its high level of excitement and fan interest, started a new
era for ESPN boxing. A larger fan base actually emerged
for their boxing telecasts. The bout was simply the “best”
the sport of boxing could offer to fans and it was a fight
from the 1980’s that was definitely a “classic.”
Earlier that year Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini, the pride
of Youngstown, Ohio, captured a WBA Title with a
stunning first round knockout of Arturo Frais. Mancini’s
quest for a Title had been completed. In his first Title
defense he defeated challenger Ernesto Espana. In the fall
and his second defense he faced a challenger from Korea
named Doo Koo Kim. Kim had a record of 17 wins, with 1
loss and 1 draw. Fighting in his native country of Korea
where boxing is not as popular he lacked the skills of a
fighter from the United States. Like many Korean fighters
he was long on will and stamina but short on technique.
The bout held on November 13th, was broadcast on network
television and Mancini’s Title was at stake. The bout was a
long hard fought contest. Mancini and Kim were each hit
by a number of punches thrown by the other. Neither
fighter ever seem willing to retreat or back down. Mancini
was ahead on the scorecards but the bout still easily could
be described as totally competitive with each fighter
having big moments. Mancini’s power and relentless
attack eventually enabled him to win in a fourteenth round
knockout but not after Kim had proven himself to be a
game challenger. Several days later Kim died of his
injuries sustained in the bout. The sport, always
controversial was further tarnished by such a tragedy.
That same month on the 26th, Randall “Tex” Cobb, a
heavyweight fighter from Texas who had a record of 21
wins with 2 losses was given a title shot against then
Champion Larry Holmes. The bout was shown on network
television and world-renowned sportscaster Howard
Cossell served as commentator. The challenger Cobb, a
relative unknown, had lost previously to Ken Norton and
Michael Dokes. Both losses were close decisions that
really could have gone either way. Standing 6’3’’, and
weighing 234 pounds Cobb was in shape. He also had an
incredible chin and was well liked by fans and the media.
However, against the Champion Holmes he was
outclassed. Holmes, a smart boxer, stayed on the outside
and just used his jab and quick right hand to keep the
challenger from Texas at bay. Each round fit the
same mode. Cobb relentlessly came forward and just
absorbed punch after punch. His left eye began to
redden and then “swell.” The bout continued. Cobb was
game but he just took way too many blows as his head
often jerked sideways with “sweat” flying off it as he was
tagged by the Champion Holmes. After several rounds
Cossell saw it was a mismatch. He declared
unconditionally that the bout should be stopped.
Unfortunately the bout was never stopped. At the end of
fifteen rounds Cobb’s bruised and swollen face clearly
showed the damage from Holmes’s punching. When
announced, the decision as expected went to Holmes. The
bout had a negative impact on the sport and the networks
were criticized for showing such a brutal mismatch. It
really should have never been allowed to take place in the
first place. Also, it came at a time when Doo Koo Kim’s
death had already diminished the image of professional
boxing. Howard Cossell stated publicly he would no
longer broadcast the sport due to it’s lack of professional
oversight.
Also in the heavyweight division and again in a
controversial setting, Mike Weaver the WBA Champion
fought a rising star in Michael “Dynamite” Dokes. Dokes,
was undefeated and in great shape ready to win a title.
The bout held on December 10th, showed Dokes
immediately going to work on the Champion Weaver. He
knocked Weaver down but Weaver rose and then Dokes
unloaded a quick flurry of punches. Weaver, on the ropes
rolled with them and they did little to hurt him but referee
Joey Curtis prematurely stopped the fight. Curtis,
concerned about the death of Doo Koo Kim did not want
something like that to happen again. Protests over the
quick stoppage erupted but the decision stood and the Title
changed hands. Fortunately the WBA Boxing
Organization quickly realized a mistake had taken place
and a rematch was immediately ordered.
Bobby Chacon proving all his bouts have excitement
fought Rafael Limon on December 11th. Chacon, hoping to
capture the WBC Super Featherweight Title fought like a
true warrior and despite being knocked down in the fourth
round and the tenth round he rallied to win a very close
unanimous fifteen round decision to capture the Title. The
bout had so many ups and downs and was so exciting Ring
Magazine named it 1982 “Fight of the Year.”
In other boxing news that year Mustafa Hamsho rose to
the challenge and gave then undefeated Bobby Cyzz his
first loss in twenty pro bouts. Cruiserweight Champion
Carlos De Leon lost his Title to challenger S.T. Gordon in a
second round knockout. Also, heavyweight Scott Frank
moved up in competition and in a bout with many
comical moments scored a draw with nationally ranked
contender Renaldo Snipes. Lastly a heavyweight named
Lee Canalito from Florida who stood 6’5” and weighed
245 pounds won three fights that year bringing his record
to 11 wins with 0 losses.
Chapter 4. 1983
The spring of 1983 saw the heavyweight division begin
to change. Larry Holmes reached the age of 33 and he no
longer had the skills he once had in the ring. His next
opponent was Tim Witherspoon who had a record of 15
wins with 0 losses. Witherspoon, largely untested was a
big puncher with a strong defense. He offered an
interesting challenge for the aging Champ. The bout took
place on May 20th and Witherspoon despite his lack of
experience fought valiantly. Witherspoon was able to
nullify the jab of Holmes and prevent him from landing any
real solid blows. Holmes was frustrated by Witherpoon’s
defense and Witherspoon was able to take charge of the
bout. He landed consistently on Holmes and being a big
puncher had Holmes on the run. In the most exciting
round, the ninth, Witherspoon still looking “fresh” with
energy had the Champion in serious trouble and he had to
retreat. Holmes, a true “warrior” then planted his feet and
fired back. He landed on the advancing Witherspoon to
slow the attack. The bout continued at a grueling pace with
each fighter realizing the Title was on the line and going all
out. The bout was close and difficult to score for the
judges. After fifteen rounds, the bell rang to signify the
end of the fight and neither fighter turned to the other to
say good fight. Both walked to their corners to await the
decision which most expected to go Witherspoon’s way
and have him emerge as the new Heavyweight Champion.
After tallying up the scorecards the decision was a split
decision for Holmes. He retained his Title and improved
his record to 43 wins with 0 losses. However, the bout
really signified the end of Holmes’s domination of the
division. It was time for a new champion to take over.
Also, in the heavyweight division and on the same fight
card Michael “Dynamite” Dokes fought a rematch with
former WBA Champ Mike “Hercules” Weaver. The
battle took place at night in the desert and with the current
WBA Heavyweight Champion and former WBA
Heavyweight Champion colliding it really was the main
event for that fight card. Weaver, after losing his title in a
quick stoppage was motivated for the bout. He wanted to
desperately to regain his Title and prove their first meeting
was a total fluke. When the bout began Dokes took
charge and went right at Weaver hoping to catch him cold.
It looked as though it would be an early night and Dokes
would win by knockout. Weaver survived and as the
rounds progressed, Weaver, a notoriously slow
starter started to come around. He began to catch Dokes
with jabs and stunned him to slow down his attack. The
pace of the fight went back and forth with both fighting
vigorously and neither fighter really gaining an edge.
Dokes boxed slightly more than Weaver, where as Weaver
seem to land bigger punches. The crowd, appreciative of
the fighter’s efforts cheered loudly as the two warriors
engaged in a incredible “bruising” battle. After fifteen
rounds much to the surprise of the crowd, the decision was
declared a draw. Most ringsiders felt Weaver had won but
Dokes retained his Title. For fans it was a great contest.
Both fighters put forth their best efforts to come out on top
and neither ever let up during the exciting contest. In the
heavyweight division, boxing’s premiere division, the
rematch between Dokes and Weaver was a fight from the
1980’s that indeed was a “classic.”
On June 16th at Madison Square Garden a bout between
then WBA Light Middleweight Champion Davey Moore
and Roberto Duran rocked the boxing world. Duran years
before had quit in showdown with Leonard and he needed
desperately to re-deem himself in the eyes of the boxing
community. Davey Moore held a Title yet was
inexperienced with only 11 pro bouts in his pro–career.
This was an excellent opportunity for Duran to rejuvenate
his career and put his infamous “No Mas” performance
against Leonard behind him. There was tremendous fan
and media interest for this bout as for Duran, a true
“Legend” in the sport, always proved to be a big draw.
Moore, with his natural good looks was perhaps boxing’s
next Sugar Ray Leonard, but first he needed to prove
himself against a formidable foe. The bout took place on
the 16th of June with a packed arena present and it was
shown on network television. Unfortunately for Moore he
did not have the experience to handle Duran. Duran used
his boxing skills to land easily on a game Moore.
Moore was outclassed and took way too many shots
including a thumb to the eye early in the fight which
made his eye swell quickly. By the fifth round Moore’s
face showed the effects of Duran’s punches. His eye
was nearly swollen shut, his nose bloodied and his mouth
was agape. Also he was being hit with virtually
everything Duran threw at him. The bout needed to be
stopped. Despite such the referee as well as the corner of
Moore failed to so. Moore then absorbed a Duran right
hand that sent him to the canvas. When he rose the action
resumed which consisted of him being pummeled even
more. It was a horrific sight. Moore had the potential to be
seriously hurt in there. In the eighth and final round
Moore was actually out on his feet and only standing by
leaning on Duran. Finally his corner threw in the towel
and the bout was rightfully stopped. For the sport of
boxing it was a terrible showing and for Moore he endured
what could be described as a career ending beating. Fans
were repulsed by what had taken place. Boxing insiders
believed the bout might have such a psychological and
physical effect on Moore that he may never recover
career-wise. For Duran, he had done it. He now held a
Title and officially put the infamous “No Mas” behind him.
His boxing career, once stalled, was revived.
That summer also saw a bout between a Syrian
immigrant named Mustafa Hamsho and former world
champion Wilfred Benitez. The bout took place on July
16th at the weight of 160 pounds and no titles were at
stake. Benitez, really a small welterweight did not carry
the extra weight well and was facing a much larger foe.
Hamsho, a fighter with a granite chin but only limited
punching power had great resolve in the ring. He never
turned down fights and had a never quit attitude. When
the bout began Benitez, fighting in a peculiar way, fought
the entire fight out of his own corner. He did not use the
ring and box which was his style. He was repeatedly hit
by Hamsho and Benitez, known for being elusive was
actually an easy target. After twelve rounds Hamsho won
a lopsided decision. For Hamsho who was still proving
himself as a fighter it was a major victory.
On September 15th, Ray Mancini who held the WBA
Light Welterweight Title fought Orlando Romero from
Peru. Not much was known about Romero who had a
record of 30 wins, with 0 losses and 1 draw. He had never
fought in the United States before and whether or not he
had the credentials to challenge for a title was a question.
The bout, held on network television was indeed
entertaining. Romero, using speed and head movement
was able to hold his own against Mancini. The bout went
back and forth, until the middle rounds when the
experience and relentless attack of Mancini began to show
on Romero. In the ninth round Mancini landed a “picture
perfect” left hook that sent Romero to the canvas. He hit
the canvas hard and did not beat the count. It was a
knockout victory for Mancini who retained his Title and
improved his record to 27 wins with only 1 loss. Mancini,
a brawler who trained hard and fought with tremendous
heart always seem to be in competitive fights. In most of
these bouts he came out on top winning by a knockout.
Fans appreciated his efforts. He was workman like fighter
with nothing particularly fancy about his fighting style.
In the middleweight division a fighter from Argentina
named Juan Roldan fought Frank “The Animal” Fletcher
on the undercard of Marvin Hagler vs Roberto Duran.
Roldan was a big puncher who as a fighter was reaching his
full potential. In the ring that night against Fletcher he
looked like a true professional. He seemed to land
everything he threw at Fletcher who just seems to absorb
punch after punch. Fletcher was knocked down at one
point but gamely got back up to continue fighting. In the
sixth and final round Roldan landed a combination on
Fletcher who had taken all he could handle and he went
straight to the canvas unconscious. He had no chance
of beating the count and did not move for several minutes.
It was an impressive victory for Roldan who had never
fought on network television before. He improved his
record to 52 wins, with 2 losses and 2 draws. His future
in the middleweight division looked quite good. Could he
be the fighter that dethrones the legendary “Marvelous”
Marvin Hagler? With his punching power and excellent
showing in the ring that night boxing fans were starting to
ask that question.
On that same boxing card Roberto Duran moved up in
weight and fought the invincible Marvin Hagler at 160
pounds. The Titles Hagler held were at stake and despite
being a newcomer to the 160-pound division Duran fought
quite well. He used his quick hands, lateral movement and
power punching to frustrate Hagler throughout the fight.
Hagler was unable to land on the elusive Duran who knew
how to slip punches. As the fight progressed Hagler,
slightly behind on points slowly but surely came on. At
the end of thirteenth round the fight was very close. Hagler
won the last two rounds to win the decision. In a rather
peculiar twist of fate, despite losing, Duran actually gained
credibility in the boxing community for his showing
against Hagler. The press were more interested in
complimenting Duran for his performance rather than
crediting Hagler for the win. In the past Hagler was always
considered “invincible” but Duran cracked that all too
perfect image. Could Hagler continue to dominate the
middleweight division or was his time as Champion
beginning to wind down?
In other news in boxing that year South African Gerrie
Coetzee knocked out WBA Heavyweight Champion
Michael Dokes. Coetzee was a puncher who had a big
right hand which was also joking referred to as a “bionic”
hand because he had so many operations on it. With the
win over Dokes, Coetzee captured the WBA Heavyweight
Title. Also in the heavyweight division Larry Holmes
faced two marginal challenges from Scott Frank and
Marvis Frazier. He stopped under-sized Marvis Frazier in
one round and Scott Frank in six rounds. Frank, an
undefeated heavyweight with average skills put some
effort into the bout. He actually landed a few solid
punches on the Champion. Also that year Hector
Camacho who was slowly making his way in the sport
defeated Rafeael Limon to capture the WBC vacant Super
Featherweight Title. Lastly in the cruiserweight division
Carlos De-Leon stopped former Heavyweight Champion
Leon Spinks in six rounds. He also re-gained his WBC
Cruiserweight Title by defeating S.T. Gordon in a twelve
round decision. De-Leon with the win over former
Heavyweight Champion Leon Spinks and his win over S.T.
Gordon to win back his Title was slowly proving his worth
as a fighter. Unfortunately the division he fought in, the
cruiserweight division, lacked any significant fan or media
interest.
Chapter 5. 1984
The beginning of the year saw a crossroads fight
between a youthful and energetic Ray Mancini against an
older yet still popular Bobby Chacon. The bout took place
on January 14th, and the WBA Lightweight Title Mancini
held was at a stake. Both fighters, always seem to be in
bouts that involve endless excitement. Chacon, who had
proven he had the heart of a “lion,” gave it his all in the
bout against the younger Mancini. He never backed down
nor took a step backward. The bout was a hard fought
contest that saw a lot of leather flying. Mancini was able to
overwhelm Chacon and the referee was forced to stop the
bout after Chacon had taken too many shots in the third
round. Mancini’s career was peaking and he retained his
Title and improved his record to 29 wins with 1 loss.
Chacon, a veteran of many ring wars perhaps was down to
his last one or two years of boxing. Retirement needed to
be considered.
In 1984 Billy Costello proved to everyone in the world
of boxing he was a force to be reckoned with. As a fighter
he trained hard, had good punching power and a natural
ability to survive ring wars. On January 29th he had his first
title shot. He fought Bruce Curry and after ten rounds won
the WBC Light Welterweight Title with a tenth round
knockout. His first defense of the Title was on July 15th.
He fought challenger Randy Shields and Costello won a
twelve round unanimous decision to retain his Title. Later
that year he again successfully defended his Title against
Saul Mamby in a slugfest that went the distance. 1984
proved to be a great year for Billy Costello. He captured a
Title and defended it twice and his record now stood at 29
wins with 0 losses. His career was peaking and his future
in the sport looked bright.
The summer of 1984 was a boxing fan’s paradise. That
time graciously complimented fans with bouts on free
television which “electrified” the sport and were greatly
appreciated by fans.
Ray Mancini was a fighter slowly making his mark in the
sport. He was still a Champion with a record of 29 wins
with only 1 loss. In June he was matched against Duva
prodigy Rasi Bramble. Bramble, a talented counter
puncher had a record of 20 wins, with 1 loss and 1 draw.
Some boxing insiders felt he possessed the right style to
frustrate the Champion Mancini. Perhaps he could even
de-throne him. The bout between the two was highly
anticipated by fans and media. It was an interesting match
up. Could the taller, leaner Bramble defeat Mancini who
relentlessly punched or was he going to be stopped early?
The bout was held on June 1st and any questions as to who
would win or lose this intriguing match up were finally
going to be answered. The night of the fight the auditorium
was packed and the bout was shown on network television.
Everyone was ready to see the game warriors meet in the
ring. They awaited anxiously for the two to emerge from
their dressing rooms. Bramble came out first followed a
few minutes later by Mancini. After the fighter’s
introductions and final instructions by the referee the
bell rang and the bout began. Mancini as expected fought
coming forward throwing many punches where as Bramble
retreated and did some occasional counter punching for the
first three rounds. But by the fourth round Bramble began
to hold his own. He began landing accurate punches on
the Champion Mancini. The tide of the fight, which
maintained itself seem to be Mancini throwing more
punches early in the round. Bramble meanwhile, threw
fewer but bigger and more accurate punches towards the
end of each round. No one really knew for sure who was
winning or losing. It was a bout difficult to score. By
end of round twelve Bramble appeared to have a slight
lead in the fight. By the fourteenth round Mancini was
“exhausted” from his relentless punching style and also
was taking too many big shots from Bramble. His legs
turned rubbery and he fell into the ropes with the still
“energized” Bramble still vigorously throwing punches at
him. The referee had to stop the bout. The crowd went
crazy. It was an incredible victory for Bramble who
fought cautiously with his hands held high and
successfully “counter-punched” his way to victory.
Bramble now held the WBA Lightweight Title and
improved his record to 21 wins, with loss and 1 draw.
Many good paydays were in line for the Duva product
Bramble, perhaps even a rematch with Ray Mancini. Fans
would be delighted to see it. After all their first meeting
was a fight from the 1980’s that was indeed a “classic.”
That same night on the undercard Johnny Bumphus who
held the WBA Light Welterweight Title was fighting Gene
Hatcher. Hatcher, a fighter who was only marginally
qualified for a title shot had a record of 20 wins with 2
losses. Bumphus who was also a product of the Duva clan
had a perfect record with 22 wins and 0 losses. The bout,
was expected to be somewhat of a mismatch with Bumphus
wining handedly. During the bout Bumphus, a talented
fighter, boxed perfectly. He outclassed the game
challenger who was on the receiving end of most of
his punches. Hatcher, motivated to win but lacking
speed and technique could not hurt or really even catch
Bumphus with any solid punches. Bumphus looked like a
true professional and a Champion in there. However, in
the eleventh round Hatcher threw a home-run punch in a
desperate attempt to catch Bumphus off-guard. Luckily it
was it was a “perfect shot.” Bumphus got hit cleanly and
went straight to the canvas. He tried to get up but his legs
were “jelly” like and the referee had to stop the bout. The
Title switched hands and Hatcher, really a club-fighter won
through sheer determination. He now held the WBA
Lightweight Welterweight Title and was officially a
Champion. A status career-wise few believed he
had the boxing skills to ever acquire.
Also, in June Duran still reeling off his strong showing
against “Marvelous” Marvin Hagler the year before was
matched against Thomas “Hitman” Hearns. Hearns was a
knockout artist who held the WBC Light Middleweight
Title and whose only loss in 39 fights was to Sugar Ray
Leonard years before. Currently as a fighter he was on a
upswing. Could Duran the Panamanian with “Hands of
Stone” beat Hearns as he beat Sugar Ray Leonard in 1980?
Hearns was taller, more awkward and a bigger puncher
than Leonard. In recent years Duran had been in many big
fights and may have used up his best resources. The bout
was held on June 13th and shown on network television. It
was entertaining but not competitive. Duran could not
penetrate the jab of Hearns and was just getting hit with
everything Hearns threw. He was knocked down in the
first round and in the second round Hearns threw and
connected with a “crushing “overhand right on Duran.
Duran was hit directly on the chin and the punch was so
“powerful” it could be heard throughout the arena. After
absorbing the full impact of the punch Duran who was
leaning on the ropes at the time slowly fell forward and
straight to the canvas. The referee immediately stopped the
fight without bothering to count. Duran, “groggy,”
managed to make his way to a knelling position with his
mouth agape and the look of a fighter who is
“disconnected” from his senses. He had lost in a brutal
knockout. His corner, concerned about him rushed into the
ring to aid him. Meanwhile Hearns and his corner
celebrated. The big knockout win by Hearns may have
been his best showing in the professional ranks ever.
Duran the “Hands of Stone” had proven to be no
competition and boxing fans and media began to mention
Hearns as a future opponent for the invincible
“Marvelous” Marvin Hagler.
Also in the month of June Howard Davis the only
member of the 1976 US Olympic Team who was yet to win
a title fought Edwin Rosario for the WBC Lightweight
Title in Puerto Rico. Davis was a skilled boxer but had
limited power where as Rosario was a puncher who always
came into fights in great shape and put forth an effort to
win by knockout. The bout was shown on network
television and it was more than likely the last chance of
Howard Davis would have to win a title. When the bout
began Davis boxed going side to side using his jab and
right hand to land on Rosario. Rosario took all his shots
in full stride. Offensively Rosario landed fewer punches
than Davis but his punches were bigger and more effective.
In addition twice during the fight he was able to knock
Davis down to the canvas including once in the final round.
The knockdowns, which count as 10-8 rounds enabled
Rosario to win a close decision and retain his Title.
Rosario, always fighting like a true professional used his
punching power to come out on top in a bout he may have
lost had he not scored the knockdowns.
In November Heavyweight Champion Larry Holmes,
always in a quest to find a formidable challenger fought a
six-foot-four 227 pound heavyweight named James
“Bonecrusher” Smith. Smith was a raw puncher from
Magnolia, North Carolina, who actually was knocked out in
his pro-debut. Career-wise he rose to fame when he
stopped English heavyweight prospect Frank Bruno in a
dramatic come from behind knockout. Could Smith who
sported a 14 wins with 1 loss record beat Holmes who was
slightly out of his prime? Fans were going to find out.
The bout was held on November 15th and was an exciting
contest. Although Smith lacked experience he made up for
it in determination and effort. He initiated action, used his
jab well and despite his lack of experience stunned Holmes
the Champion a couple of times. However, he was facing
a “Legend” and by the twelfth round Smith, game but
inexperienced had taken too many shots. The bout had to
be stopped. Holmes retained his Title and proved
himself to still be the Heavyweight Champion of the
World.
In other notable news that year in the sport Davey Moore
fought Wilfred Benitez. Benitez, still hoping to be
considered one of boxing’s best fighters and fighting at a
slightly higher weight found himself undersized. Also,
after having so many fights early in his career he was a
young man but an “old fighter.” In the bout with Moore
he was knocked down in the second round, hurt his leg and
was unable to continue. Moore got the win and being
excited with his victory said publicly he wanted Marvin
Hagler in the ring next. In the cruiserweight division
Carlos De-Leon won a twelve round decision over
Anthony Davis. Lastly, the year 1984 saw a “giant”
named Thomas Payne who stood seven-foot-two and
weighed 270 pounds enter the ring. He had two fights
winning one and losing the other. Many fans and media
expect giants to dominate boxing. Although they have an
intimidating presence and good punching power. They
often lack stamina, speed and coordination. As fighters
they are notoriously known for starting off much better
than they finish. The early returns of the boxing career of
Thomas Payne seemed to support this notion.
Chapter 6. 1985
On March 15th, two great fighters who owned the elite
status of being a great fighter collided in the ring to do
battle. The contractual agreements were finally worked
out after years of negotiations. It was a match the public
demanded and received. The two fighters were
“Marvelous” Marvin Hagler and Thomas “Hitman” Hearns.
With their collective status they could really draw fan and
media interest in this “classic” showdown. The outcome
would make boxing history and be talked about for years to
come. Prior to this bout Hearns had a record of 40 wins
with 1 loss while Hagler record wise was 60 wins, with 2
losses and 2 draws. The bout held on April 15, 1985, was
as good as a boxing fight could be. The two warriors both
talented and motivated went straight at each other when the
bell rang. Each fighter was firmly intent on stopping the
other via-knockout. The action was intense and non-stop.
The crowd, “appreciative” of the fighters efforts, cheered
loudly. In the first round neither fighter seem to enjoy an
edge as both rocked the other. The second round was just
as intense, but Hagler, the stronger of the two landed some
clean shots to the head of Hearns. Hearns however was
able to drop in some big right hands. A cut opened up on
Hagler but after an examination by a ring doctor the bout
was allowed to continue. The third round again was action
packed with each throwing bombs hoping to score the big
knockout. Late in the round Hagler connected with a right
hand that sent Hearns sideways. Hagler rushed at him and
landed again and Hearns went straight down to the canvas.
He then stood up but was clearly out on his feet and the
referee stopped the fight. The bout was over and Hagler
had won by a knockout. The “action” in the bout and fan
interest was so great that boxing fans had not seen a fight of
this magnitude since the era when Muhammad Ali used to
fight. This big victory for Hagler finally garnered him the
recognition and status as a boxer that had eluded him
throughout his career. He was now on top of the boxing
world and he retained his Titles and improved his record to
61 wins, with 2 losses and 2 draws. For Hearns he was
complimented for his efforts but he should have utilized a
different style to accommodate Hagler. He should used the
ring more and boxed. It was costly mistake to make in
such a major and career defining bout.
Julio Cesar Chavez, currently Mexico’s most popular
fighter proved that skill-wise he not only could challenge
for a title but win it also. Chavez fought Ruben Castillo on
March 15th and stopped him in a sixth round knockout
capturing the WBC Super-Featherweight Title. In July he
defended his Title from Challenger Roger Mayweather. He
dropped Mayweather twice in the second round and the
bout was then stopped. Another victory for Chavez. The
Chavez express, which now sported an incredible record of
73 wins with 0 losses seem to do no wrong. Later that
year he defended his Title again against Dwight Pratchett
and won a twelve round decision and in a non- title bout
beat former champion Johnny Bumphus at the weight of
135 pounds. Chavez finished the year undefeated and was
en-route to being considered pound-for-pound one of the
best fighters in the world.
On May 12th, a well built six-foot-five heavyweight
prospect from New York named Carl “the Truth” Williams
who had 16 wins in just as many fights was given a title
shot against then Heavyweight Champion Larry Holmes.
Williams, a newcomer to the sport was talented yet slightly
inexperienced. For the bout against the Champion Holmes
he was only receiving a mere $150,000. An articulate
speaker, Williams joking referred to his small paycheck as
a “buck and half.” Could Williams beat Holmes who was
hoping to match the seemingly “untouchable” record
Rocky Marciano held of 49 wins with 0 losses? Holmes
needed only two more wins for such and those two wins he
desperately wanted. The clash between the two
heavyweight combatants was shown on network television
with marginal fan and media interest. During the early
part of the bout Williams, despite his lack of experience
boxed like a true pro. He easily won the first few rounds
using his tremendous jab and reach. When necessary he
used a quick right hand to constantly hit a confused and
aging Holmes. Holmes who also had an excellent jab
could not land it and took many big shots from Williams.
After five rounds Williams had won every round and in
the sixth he backed Holmes up and even had him on the
ropes under a “barrage.” But after the first six rounds
Holmes, always fighting with a huge heart began to take
charge. He stalked Williams who was slowly running out
of stamina and Holmes began to win the rounds.
Eventually the rounds added up and the scoring got closer.
In the fifteenth and final round Holmes actually had
Williams hurt badly and not on solid legs. The decision,
although close, went to Holmes. He deserved it in a
marginal capacity. Fighting past his prime the aging
Champion Holmes needed to consider calling it quits. At
this pace it was a matter of time before he would lose. For
Carl “ The Truth” Williams, a little more seasoning would
put him right back at the top of the heavyweight picture.
With his natural talent and skills perhaps he could later
capture the heavyweight title.
Hector Camacho was still undefeated as a fighter. He
was hoping to fill a void in boxing for a champion that is
charismatic and that can draw fan and media interest to
their bouts. On August 10th, he challenged then WBC
Lightweight Champion Jose Luis Rameriez for his Title.
Camacho, as always used hand and foot speed to
outmaneuver his opponent and he even knocked the
Champion Rameriez down early. However, instead of
moving in and trying to knock him out, he boxed for the
remainder of the fight. To make the weight limit, he could
eat very little. This made him worry about his energy level
and the long distance of the bout, so he was very cautious.
Camacho won the Title but did little in the way of drawing
fan and media interest to his fights. He needed to
incorporate more knockouts in his bouts to be more
entertaining. This would greatly enhance his popularity
with boxing fans and the media.
Billy Costello, the WBC Light Welterweight Title
holder was rolling through his opponents. He was
undefeated and with a few more victories he was en-route
to being labeled as pound- for -pound one of best fighters
in the world. On August 21st, he faced a challenge from
Lonnie Smith who had a record of 21 wins, with 0 losses
and 1 draw. Smith, although undefeated had not really
cashed in on the returns of professional boxing yet. He
actually worked full time at a warehouse. Anyhow he
provided a stiff test for Costello. The bout, which started
slow, began to heat up by the third round. Smith seemed to
posses a style that Costello could not deal with. He
seemed faster, more elusive, he could burst in and catch
Costello on good shots easily. Eventually this scenario
maintained itself and Costello despite his best efforts could
never solve the “riddle” of how to fight a quick fighter like
Smith. After eight rounds Costello had all he could take.
He lost by knockout and Smith captured the Title in a
“stunning” fashion. He improved his record to 22 wins,
with 0 losses and 1 draw and now held the WBC Light
Welterweight Title. No one could have predicted the
success Lonnie Smith had in the ring that night against
Costello. It was one of the year’s biggest upsets.
For 1980’s Heavyweight Champion Larry Holmes the
clock was winding down. Although record wise he had 47
wins with 0 losses and was still the Champ, he needed to
consider retirement. His style of fighting, which consisted
of lateral movement, a quick jab and taking fights into later
rounds, was not conducive to an aging fighter. On
September 16th, he fought Light heavyweight Champion
Michael Spinks for the Heavyweight Title. Spinks who
had never lost before bulked up to 199 3/4 pounds pounds
for the big challenge. Unfortunately every single
light heavyweight champion who had tried to move up and
fight for a heavyweight title had lost. Could Spinks break
that cycle. Spinks was facing an uphill battle. However,
no one seem to tell Michael Spinks that. Spinks, realizing
Holmes did not have the skills he had earlier in his career
used a jab and quick in and out style to keep Holmes off
balance. Holmes was frustrated and could not catch up to
Spinks who was much faster. During the bout he was
forced to chase Spinks, fighting a style he was not adept at.
After fifteen rounds Spinks won a well-deserved decision.
Spinks officially ended Holmes’s ambition of beating
Rocky Marciano’s record and also put an end to his
seven and half year reign as heavyweight champion. The
victory was a career defining moment for Michael Spinks
and the bout was 1985 “Ring Magazine’s Upset of the
Year.”
In December Donald Curry was a fighter about to make
to the top- tier of the sport. He was undefeated and his
career was “red hot.” He held the WBC Welterweight Title
and was defending it from Challenger Milton McCory who
held the WBA Welterweight Title. The winner of the bout
would hold both titles and be an undisputed champion in
the welterweight division. Donald Curry nicknamed “The
Cobra” had a record of 23 wins with 0 losses while
McCory had 28 wins, with 0 losses and 1 draw. The jury
was still out on whether Donald Curry could fully dominate
his division. There were some cynics in the boxing
community. Curry, motivated and a true professional
answered all the questions about his skills when he stopped
Milton McCory in a brutal second round knockout.
McCory, on the receiving end of a flurry by Curry hit the
canvas hard. He was unconscious with his eyes open
looking upward offering “clear testament” as to the
sharpness and power of Curry’s punching power. Curry’s
career was on an upswing and his pay scale went up also.
Also, his name began to be mentioned as perhaps a future
challenge to “Marvelous” Marvin Hagler in the
middleweight division.
In other notable boxing news that year Randall “Tex”
Cobb got a rematch with Michael Dokes. After four
rounds the bout was stopped due to a head butt. Dokes
was ahead on the scorecards and got the win. Also, in the
heavyweight division a fighter from Catskill, New York,
made his pro-debut and he won in a first round knockout.
His name was Mike Tyson and boxing fans would hear a
lot more about this fighter in the future. Also that year
Mark Holmes, a middleweight and the brother of Larry
Holmes was sporting a undefeated record of 32 wins with 0
losses. He had fought mostly lower-tier fighters and it was
time for him and to move up in competition. In a bout
against durable veteran Doug Collins he was unable to
reciprocate the success his brother Larry had and he lost in
a second round knockout.
“Marvelous” Marvin Hagler captured the WBA and WBC Middleweight Titles on September 27th, 1980, in London
England. He successfully defended the Titles 12 times.
(Illustration done by Coyote Duran)
“Iron” Mike Tyson made his pro-debut on March the 6th, 1985, with a first round stoppage of Hector Mercedes. He continued winning until he captured the WBC Heavyweight Title on November 22nd, 1986, by defeating then Champion Trevor Berbick. (Illustration by Trent Stude)
In the early 1980’s Larry Holmes dominated the
the heavyweight division. Although not popular with
boxing fans or the media he proved to be unbeatable
until 1985 when he lost to Michael Spinks.
Before the internet boxing fans followed the sport through magazines. This October issue of KO Magazine gives fans the latest in boxing news. Then Champion Larry Holmes appeared on the cover and at this time he seem to run out of formidable challengers to his Title.
By 1984 Aaron Pryor, Livingstone Bramble as well
Billy Costello were dominating their divisions. Also,
a Larry Holmes vs. Gerri Coetzee bout was being
considered.
In 1987 Heavyweight Gerry Cooney had another shot at
The Heavyweight Title. He faced linear Champion
Michael Spinks and lost by TKO in the fifth round.
In 1987 Vinny Pazienza captured the lightweight title
by defeating Greg Haugen. He proved to a popular
fighter and his career had many lives. Also, in 1987
Heavyweight Carl Williams soundly defeated Bert
Cooper putting him back in Title contention.
One of the most anticipated bouts in the 1980’s was the
1982 Heavyweight Showdown between “Gentlemen”
Gerry Cooney and then Champion Larry Holmes. Holmes
emerged victorious. (Watercolor done by Coyote Duran)
Chapter 7. 1986
Tony”TNT” Tubbs held the WBA version of the
Heavyweight Title which he won from his nemesis Greg
Page. Tubbs, a talented boxer had soundly defeated Page
and for his first Title defense he fought challenger
“Terrible” Tim Witherspoon on January 17th. Witherpoon,
motivated and hoping to capitalize on the opportunity to
win the Title, was in great shape ready to fight. In the
bout he proved to be too much for the Champion Tubbs
who came into the fight overweight at 244 pounds.
Witherspoon won a fifteen round decision and with the
victory he captured the WBA Heavyweight Title. The
heavyweight championship began to splinter. Although
many felt Michael Spinks was the Heavyweight
Champion, no one was really sure who was the legitimate
champion. Despite such chaos Witherspoon proved
himself to be a fighter who comes to fight. For the
bout against Tubbs he was focused on winning the
Heavyweight Title that had eluded him previously.
The year 1986 finally brought an end to any real chance
of Former Heavyweight Champion Larry Holmes of re-
capturing the heavyweight title. After losing the first time
to Michael Spinks a rematch was granted and it was set for
March 19th. Spinks decisioned him the first time around
and for this bout he bulked up to 205 pounds. As usual,
Spinks was in great condition for the big bout. Many felt
Holmes, motivated after his first loss to Spinks might be
able to pull out one good final effort in the ring and re-
capture the title. The bout was considered perhaps the
“last hurrah” for Holmes so there was plenty of fan and
media interest. The bout began and Holmes, bigger and
heavier than Spinks stalked him. Spinks stayed on the
outside and only came in to throw punches and retreat. But
for this bout Holmes was more focused and knew Spinks’s
routine. Holmes was able catch up to Spinks and land
more punches than in their first bout. Holmes’s jab was
more effective and although he was hit by Spinks he was
never hurt or in any kind of trouble. After thirteen rounds
Holmes was slightly ahead but not being a popular fighter
with fans or the media he really needed to win by knockout.
In the fourteenth round he landed a big right hand on
Spinks whose knees buckled and he barely was able to
stand for a moment. He re-gained his footing and Holmes
chased him vigorously but could catch up to him. Holmes,
hoping to regain his lost crown came within one punch of
knocking him out. The bout only had one more round in
it and Holmes again tried to knock him out but Spinks
proved to be elusive. After fifteen rounds Holmes lost a
split decision and Spinks retained his Title. Most felt
Holmes who had boxed much better than in their first fight
and who had Spinks in trouble late in the fight deserved the
win.
In March John “The Beast” Mugabi, a Ugandan with an
undefeated record of 25 wins with 0 losses was a
middleweight closing in a title. Every single bout of his
had ended by a knockout and he possessed “thunderous”
knockout power. Many boxing insiders felt Mugabi could
give Hagler his most credible challenge for his Titles in
recent years. Hagler was getting older and had been
through numerous ring wars. He may not have the skills
and resources he had earlier in his career. Perhaps it was
time for him to retire and a new fighter to dominate the
division. Was Mugabi that fighter? On March 10th,
Mugabi and Hagler squared off in a in a much anticipated
bout and it proved to be an excellent contest. Mugabi,
facing a legend and a fighter who had not lost in seven
years had a good showing. He held his own against the
Champion boxing with him and evening stunning him
once. Mugabi was game, competitive, but not the caliber
of a fighter like Hagler. He was stopped by a combination
of punches from Hagler in the eleventh round after an
“exhausting” battle. Despite losing Mugabi still had a
strong showing and proved he had a future in the division.
Hagler, victorious again retained his Titles and improved
his record to 62 wins, with 2 losses and 2 draws.
The summer of 1986 saw the rise of Evander “The Real
Deal” Holyfield. Holyfield who was disqualified in the
1984 Olympics and did not win a gold medal but in the pro
ranks he was clearly holding his own. With only eleven
fights under his belt and weighing 186 pounds he
challenged then WBA Cruiserweight Title holder Dwight
Muhammad Qawi. Qawi, a puncher who was much more
experienced than Holyfield had a record of 26 wins, with 2
losses and 1 draw. The bout between Holyfield and Qawi
was held on July 12th was a true clash of warriors.
Holyfield boxed well and never backed down. When the
shorter and stockier Qawi got inside and let his hands go
Holyfield fired back. The tide of the fight went back and
forth. Holyfield, being taller with a better reach used it to
his advantage. He was able to slowly build a lead. After
fifteen rounds the decision was announced and it was a split
decision. Although it was close, it went to Holyfield, who
because of his tremendous efforts actually lost fifteen
pounds during the bout. He now had won his first Title
despite coming in to the fight with only eleven fights in his
professional career. Many felt careerwise he was being
moved too fast but up until now he had been a total
success. Boxing fans would hear a lot more about this
quiet unassuming fighter from Atlanta, Georgia, who was
currently a Cruiserweight Title holder.
Mike Tyson, a fighter blazing through the lower level
ranks of the heavyweight division was stepping up in
competition. He was fighting Jose Ribalta from Florida
who had a record of 23 wins, with 3 losses. He stood 6’5”,
had a good jab, and previously proven himself to be a top
heavyweight. Fans and media were curious to see how
Tyson would do against him. For “Iron” Mike, it was a big
test. The bout held on August 12th, was really a good
showing for both fighters. Tyson stalked the taller Ribalta
who moved well and used his jab. Ribalta was knocked
down in the second round but he got back up and the action
resumed. He was knocked down again in the eighth but
again got back up showing tremendous heart and courage.
By the tenth round the constant punching by Tyson had
caught up to him and after a knockdown the referee stopped
the fight. Tyson got the win and passed a major test.
Also, with the state the heavyweight division was in there
were currently too many champions. Boxing fans were
looking forward to him challenging for the title and perhaps
unifying the titles.
As expected on November 22nd, “Iron” Mike finally got a
title shot with then WBC Heavyweight Champion Trevor
Berbick. Tyson, sporting a perfect record of 27 wins with
0 losses was actually the favorite to win the fight and drew
more fan and media interest to the bout than the Champion
Berbick. The bout was really a symbolic passing of the
torch. Tyson was unbeatable and in the bout with the
Champion Berbick he offered fans an excellent display of
the “incredible” punching power that could knock his
opponents senseless. Such punching power was becoming
his trademark as a fighter. In the second round he landed
a left hand to the head of Berbick. After absorbing the
full impact of the punch Berbick went down. He made his
way to a kneeling position with a “contorted” look on his
face. The punch from Tyson had scrambled Berbick’s
brain or in boxing terminology, he was on “queer” street.
He made several attempts to stand but his legs were not
there as he “clumsily” tumbled into the ropes. He rose
again but his legs looked as though they were being
zapped with an electrical charge as he bobbed up and down
desperately tried to stand up properly. Mills Lane the
referee, seeing Berbick was in no condition to continue
rightfully stopped the fight. It was a quick second
round knockout as Berbick could not deal with the quick
and powerful punching from Tyson. The Title was passed
to Tyson and boxing fans and media just could not get
enough of the newly crowned Heavyweight Champion
Mike Tyson. He was a true “media darling” and with his
skills perhaps he could dominate the division as others
champions had in the past. The heavyweight division had
indeed entered a new era with him now owning the crown.
The cruiserweight division always known for a lack of
fan and media interest did something bizarre. It delivered
an action-oriented fight that fans appreciated and it was
shown live on television. On June 15th, Henry Tillman, a
1984 Olympic Gold Medallist who was undefeated in ten
fights and held a Cruiserweight Title had his first Title
defense. He fought cruiserweight contender Bert Cooper.
Cooper, was a bodybuilder who could punch and had a
record of 11 wins with 1 loss. He was trained by Joe
Frazier the former Heavyweight Champion. Cooper always
came into fights in great shape and made an effort to win
by scoring a knockout. In the bout with Tillman who was
more of a boxer, Cooper cut the ring off well. He was able
to knock Tillman to the canvas twice in the second round.
He rose both times and the action continued but Tillman
just kept losing the rounds. Cooper used his quick
jab and over hand right to keep him on the run for the
remainder of the fight. In the last three rounds Tillman
made an effort to pick up the pace and win the latter
rounds. However, it was too little too late. After twelve
rounds despite his best efforts Tillman lost his Title to
Cooper. For fans the bout was a total rarity. It proved to
be a great cruiserweight fight filled with action. Also for
Bert Cooper, a new face in the sport, it was his best career
performance. With the win over Tillman he improved his
record to 11 wins, with 1 loss and now held a
Cruiserweight Title. Perhaps someday he might be a force
in the heavyweight division also.
Donald Curry still hoping to become known as pound-
for-pound one of the best fighters in the world was handed
his first career loss. Still holding the WBA and WBC
Welterweight Titles he clashed with a brash British fighter
named Lloyd Honeyghan who was undefeated in 27 fights.
Curry, unprofessionally, was ten pounds overweight the
day before the fight. He had to lose too much weight too
quickly to make the 147-pound limit. Such quick weight
losses can negatively effect a fighter’s performance in the
ring. The clash between the two was held on September
27th and with Curry’s weight loss and Honyghan’s
confidence, the setting was right for a unheralded British
fighter to defeat an American superstar. That is also
exactly what transpired in the ring that night. Honeyghan,
was a fighter with speed and power and he used it to take
Curry apart in the ring. Early in the bout he landed a
quick right hand that sent Curry to the canvas. Curry rose
but was lethargic and seemed slow. He was an easy target
and the skills Donald “ The Cobra” Curry usually had were
totally absent. After being outboxed all over the ring and
with a cut Curry quit on his stool in between rounds six
and seven. It was a huge upset and Honeyghan, a five to
one underdog not only won the WBA and WBC
Welterweight Titles but in a show of confidence bet $5,000
of his own money on himself and added $25,000 to his
paycheck. Boxing fans were intrigued by this new British
Welterweight Champion. How far in the sport could he go
was being debated. In the meantime he just easily beat
Donald Curry who had never lost before in one of the
year’s biggest upsets.
In other boxing news in 1986 heavyweight Carl
“The Truth” Williams once considered a future force in
the division suffered his second professional loss. In a bad
career move he fought veteran and “knockout artist” Mike
Weaver on network television. Having less than twenty
professional bouts Williams was talented but
inexperienced. In the bout against Weaver, Williams
came to rumble and put pressure on Weaver early. He
won the first round but unfortunately in the second round
he let Weaver get too close. Weaver capitalized and let
loose a left hook. In a display of proper punching
technique, Weaver got his entire body behind the left hook
making it more powerful. It caught Williams “flush.”
After absorbing the full impact, a six-foot-five Carl
Williams remained “idle” standing upright for a moment
and then crashed into the ropes. The crowd “gasped” in
reaction. Williams beat the count but his eyes were not
completely open and his legs were far from perfectly
stable. Weaver knocked him down again and then out.
The 33-year-old former WBA Heavyweight Champ Mike
“Hercules” Weaver revived his career. Meanwhile the
management of heavyweight Carl Williams needed to
realize that fighters needed to be brought along and
developed. Currently as a professional Williams was being
moved way too fast. That same year Thomas “Hitman”
Hearns stopped then undefeated middleweight challenger
James “Black Gold” Schuler in a first round knockout. It
was Schuler’s first loss in the pro ranks. Tragically,
Schuler died a few days after the bout with Hearns via-
motorcycle accident. Also, Roberto Duran lost to Robbie
Sims. Lastly a fighter currently fighting out of Florida
named Donovan “Razor” Ruddock took a big step upward
in competition and just his fourteenth professional
fight fought Mike Weaver. Ruddock won a close split
decision in ten rounds. Boxing fans would see and hear
more about this heavyweight prospect who was improving
rapidly as a fighter. At the rate he was going at some point
he may challenge for a heavyweight title.
Chapter 8. 1987
“Big” George Foreman, a former 1970's era
Heavyweight Champion who was a power- puncher
decided to do a comeback at age 39. In his first career he
captured the Heavyweight Championship by defeating Joe
Frazier in an impressive second round knockout. He was
such a big puncher commercials could not be run because
his bouts were so short always ending by knockout early.
His punching power was perhaps “unprecedented” in
professional boxing. In his first career he retired with a
record of 45 wins with 2 losses at age twenty-six. When
he began training for his comeback he was seriously
overweight at 340 pounds and actually walked with a cane.
He got back into running and sparring and lost over fifty
pounds. Still slightly overweight, slow and out of boxing
action for years, his comeback was not taken seriously.
Many consider it to be a circus act or sideshow. The first
comeback fight was set for March 9th. George was fighting
a journeyman fighter named Steve Zouski. Could George
reciprocate the success he had in his first career? Boxing
fans and media were going to be finding out. He weighed
267 pounds for his first comeback fight and insisted he was
a better fighter than he had been in the 1970’s era. He was
bigger, stronger, more experienced and he was going to
prove it. The bout against Zouski showed George
exhibiting good ring generalship. He punched well and
covered up in a crab like defense taught to him by boxing
veteran Archie Moore. He stopped Zouski in four rounds.
The highlights of his bout were shown on sports shows and
intrigued boxing fans. Foreman won easily but he
received little praise as most still felt he was too slow and
ponderous. As soon as he faced formidable competition he
would be beaten easily. Despite such Foreman was a
tremendous draw and a “blast from the past.” Also, just
exactly how far in the heavyweight division could a 39-
year-old “Big” George Foreman go remained to be seen.
The jury was still out as opinions varied.
Michael Olijade nicknamed “Silk”’ and known for
having a resemblance to Michael Jackson was a
middleweight prospect on the rise. As a fighter he moved
well, had good boxing skills and was undefeated in 22
bouts. He was fighting a middleweight named Troy Darrell
who was being trained by the legendary trainer Angelo
Dundee. Dundee was the trainer for Muhammad Ali during
his successful career. Darrell like Olijade also had 22 wins
with 0 losses but was a short stocky fighter who some
considered to be the next Marvin Hagler. The bout was
carried on network television and in terms of action held
it’s own. The first round saw Olijade boxing and using the
ring and he was able to drop Darrell not once but twice in
impressive show of punching power. Darrell, no quitter
rose both times and the action continued. From that point
on the bout went back and forth with Darell trying to walk
down Olijade who stayed on the outside boxing. Several
times Darell caught up to the elusive Olijade and landed but
did not hurt him. Olijade fought a boxer’s fight, jabbing,
moving and staying mostly on the outside. The bout was
hard to score and after ten rounds the judges gave the
decision to Olijade. Many felt Darrell deserved the win, but
it was a close bout and the decision could have gone either
way. Olijade improved his record to 23 and 0 while
Darrel suffered his first professional loss.
Mike Tyson the big puncher from Catskills, New York,
and current Heavyweight Champion continued his rampage
through the heavyweight ranks. On May 30th he fought
Pinklon Thomas. Thomas, a strong fighter, had a shaky
first round but after that held his own against Tyson. He
used his jab and quick right hand to keep Tyson at bay.
Tyson could not get inside on Thomas who appeared to be
winning the rounds. In the sixth round an uppercut by
Tyson turned the “tide” of the fight. Thomas was in trouble
and after a knockdown the bout was rightfully stopped.
Another win for “ Iron” Mike Tyson. In August, Tony
“TNT” Tucker, an amateur star who had defeated James
Douglas in the professional ranks to win the IBF
Heavyweight Title fought “Iron” Mike Tyson. Tucker
had an impressive record of 34 wins with 0 losses. He
stood 6’5’’ and had good boxing skills. He presented an
interesting challenge to Mike Tyson. In the bout, Tucker
had a good start. He “rocked” Tyson in the first round and
used his jab and footwork to win two of the first three
rounds. As the fight progressed Tyson closed gaps and
caught up to the elusive Tucker. Tyson eventually gained
the lead in scoring and won a twelve round decision.
Tucker however, had his moments in the ring that night
against Tyson. He proved to be a game fighter and was for
real as a heavyweight contender. In October, Tyson won
by knockout over Tyrell Biggs in seven rounds. The power
punching of Tyson was too much for Biggs to handle and
it was a strong showing for “Iron” Mike. Tyson finished
the year undefeated and still undisputed Heavyweight
Champion. Could anyone defeat Mike Tyson? That was
a question that many were asking?
Vinnie “ The Pazmanian Devil” from Cranston, Rhode,
Island, was beginning to come around as a fighter. Being
managed by the Duvas he had a record of 23 wins with 1
loss. He was charismatic, had good oratory skills and
was slowly becoming a media darling. In his first
try at a title he challenged then IBF Lightweight Title
holder Greg Haugen on June 7th. Haugen had a record of
19 wins with 0 losses. Although Pazienza had 23 wins,
many of his opponents were lower-tier fighters. Some
fans as well as media felt Pazienza was not championship
material and would be over his head in a fight with Haugen.
The bout between Pazienza and Haugen was on network
television and was a clash of two motivated fighters,
neither wanting to lose. Early on Haugen built a lead with
his jab and consistent right hand. He had the challenger
Pazienza on the run. But as the fight progressed Pazienza
slowly came on and was out-punching Haugen. The bout
was close but Pazienza was able to sweep the last five
rounds. This enabled him to win a close and controversial
unanimous decision. Some ringsiders felt Haugen won.
However, the bout, with it’s level of excitement and the
antics of Pazienza proved to be a good contest. Pazienza,
the pride of Canston, Rhode Island, and a newly crowned
Champion had a bright future in the sport if he could
continue winning.
The month of June also brought the return of
Heavyweight Gerry Cooney. Cooney who recently beat a
top ten opponent in Eddie Gregg was going to fight
Michael Spinks. Spinks held the linear Heavyweight Title
which he won after he defeated Larry Holmes. Cooney,
standing 6’7” and weighing 238 pounds clearly outsized
Michael Spinks. He was a tremendous puncher and despite
being a little older, Cooney still had plenty of resources
left. For this bout Spinks, who weighed 208 pounds was
facing a tough task. But being the incredible fighter he
was, he always seem to find a way to win and had never
lost once lost in thirty professional fights. He also once
owned the Lightheavyweight Title and currently was
recognized as the linear Heavyweight Champion. The
bout, held on June 15th, had only marginal fan and media
interest. In years past Gerry Cooney had always been
popular but after a long layoff there was less interest in his
bouts. The bout refereed to as “The War at the Shore”
began with Cooney stalking Spinks. Cooney was lunging
forward but just was not able to catch up to Spinks who
was moving and using the ring. As the fight advanced
Cooney was an easy target for Spinks who repeatedly
tagged the much larger Cooney with overhand rights.
Cooney the “Giant” was losing the fight and after two
knockdowns and with him taking too much punishment the
fight was rightfully stopped in the fifth round. Cooney’s
second try at a title had failed and Spinks who most felt
would win by decision instead won easily by knockout.
For Michael Spinks who was a 1976 Olympic Gold
medallist, Lightheavyweight Champion and currently
recognized as the linear Heavyweight Champion, the
knockout of Gerry Cooney was another massive credential
on his impressive resume.
Donald Curry, sporting a good record of 27 wins
with 1 loss was still considered pound-for-pound
one of the best fighters in the world. He was matched
against Mike McCallum who held the WBA Light
Middleweight Title. McCallum was undefeated in thirty
professional bouts and at the height of his career. He had a
good chin, good power and if he could keep winning he
was en-route to becoming a great fighter. Could he
successfully defend his Title against Donald Curry who
had only one loss and was a former title holder. Fans
were going to be finding out. On July 18th, the bout took
place and with much anticipation. Fans just could not wait
for the fight to begin, they were “supercharged” awaiting
the arrival of the fighters in the ring. Curry came out first,
then the Champion McCallum. During the pre-fight
instructions Donald Curry and Mike McCallum eyed each
other at close range in a “classic” stare-down and neither
blinked. The bout began and Curry, a talented boxer-
puncher took the lead. He used hand speed and power to
keep McCallum on the outside and when McCallum tried
to get inside Curry landed clean shots on him. Early in
the fight McCallum was hit with an overhand right and his
knees buckled. Upon seeing this the crowd, following the
bout closely “gasped” thinking the punch may have
finished the bout. McCallum quickly regained his footing
and stayed in the fight. In the fifth round McCallum
threw a left hook. The left hook may have been the best
left hook thrown by any fighter in the 1980’s. It caught
Curry “flush”who went backwards and straight to the
canvas. He made an effort to beat the count but was out
on his feet and the referee had to stop the bout.
“Pandemonium” swept the ring as McCallum and his
corner celebrated. He retained his Title and for McCallum
it was a major victory. His name now was up there with
some of the best fighters in the world. A true boxing
talent he was. For Curry, who was ahead on the all
scorecards at the time of the knockout, it was tough
loss to absorb career-wise. The match–up between Donald
Curry and Mike McCallum was a highly anticipated 1980’s
“classic” showdown. The left hook thrown by McCallum
that stopped Curry in his tracks proved to be a 1980’s
“classic” knockout punch. Fans could not have asked for a
more exciting fight.
Other boxing action that year that was noteworthy was
when Virgil Hill, a popular fighter in his home state of
North Dakota stopped Leslie Stewart in a knockout to
capture the WBA Lightheavyweight Title. Also, Bobby
Cyzz lost a bruising battle to “Prince” Charles Williams in
a never say die battle and Mathew Hilton won the WBA
Light Middleweight Title with a fifteen round decision over
Buster Drayton. Lastly, Sugar Ray Leonard won a split
decision over Marvin Hagler. The bout, although strong in
fan and media interest was not the best boxing could offer.
Hagler had previously retired and had not been all that
active in recent years. He was listed as being 32 years of
age but was alleged to be older and his career had peaked
years before. He was currently well outside of his prime.
Leonard won the fight but a bout between the two would
have been more defining of the fighters skills and more of a
classic match up had it taken place years before.
Chapter 9. 1988
No sooner had the first month gone by in 1988 and
“Iron” Mike Tyson a heavyweight phenomenon,
experienced his first victory. Larry Holmes, age 38, was in
his final quest to re-capture the heavyweight title. Holmes,
like Tyson fought an aging 38-year former Heavyweight
Champion named Muhammad Ali who also made a final
effort to re-capture his heavyweight title. The bout was a
mismatch and Holmes won easily. The circumstances of
that bout were very similar to the Tyson versus Holmes
fight. Neither bout should really have taken place. Against
Tyson, Holmes, a skilled boxer in his prime had nowhere
near the skills he had earlier and was easily stopped by
Mike Tyson in four rounds. Could anyone stop the Tyson
express? Two months later on March 21st Tyson stopped
his next opponent. Fighting in Tokyo, Japan, he knocked
out perpetually out of shape Tony Tubbs in two rounds.
Tyson’s power, always a given enabled him to land a single
shot to the head of Tubbs that sent Tubbs backwards and
straight to the canvas. His corner came into the ring and
the bout was stopped. Another victory for Tyson by
knockout who improved his record to 34 wins with 0
losses.
Evander Holyfield, the only fighter from the 1984 United
States Olympic team who did not win a gold medal
continued to climb through the ranks of the cruiserweight
division. On March 9th, he fought well-established WBA
and WBC Cruiserweight Champ Carlos De-Leon. De-Leon
who long ago proved himself to be a formidable fighter was
not a pushover by any means even for the talented and
rising star Holyfield. The bout, shown on cable, was not
only competitive but at one point De-Leon, the underdog,
had Holyfield hurt. However, Holyfield survived and
being a big and consistent puncher he eventually took
charge of the bout. In the eighth round after a Holyfield
barrage the bout was stopped. Now Holyfield owned the
WBA and WBC Cruiserweight Titles and improved his
record to 18 wins with 0 losses. In July, Holyfield, always
hoping to make it to the heavyweight ranks made his
heavyweight debut. Weighing just 202 pounds he fought
veteran James Tillis and in a good display of punching
power stopped a legitimate heavyweight in five rounds.
Holyfield, despite being undersized seemed like he could
do no wrong in the ring. He just kept winning and there
was already talk of a big showdown between him and
“Iron” Mike Tyson.
Just exactly how dominant in the heavyweight division
Mike Tyson was could not be more adequately displayed
than on June 27th. That night he fought Michael Spinks.
Spinks was undefeated in 31 fights and had defeated
Larry Holmes twice by decision. Spinks currently was
regarded as the linear Heavyweight Champion. Being
slightly smaller than a legitimate heavyweight and to
accommodate the size difference with Tyson, Spinks
bulked up to 212 pounds. However in the bout Tyson
proved be too much and Spinks lasted less than a round.
Tyson retained his Titles and also became the linear
Heavyweight Champion in the eyes of the public. Tyson
record wise was now 35 wins with 0 losses. In the ring he
was just invincible. Could anyone ever give Tyson a good
fight and perhaps defeat him? At this junction in the
heavyweight division it looked as though the answer was a
definite no. Fans were seeing “Iron” Mike Tyson at his
absolute best.
In July, Michael Nunn who had improved his record to 30
wins with 0 losses was beginning to dominate the
middleweight division. He was known as a talented boxer
with a good jab and a long reach. He could give anyone a
boxing lesson that he stepped into the ring with. Frank
Tate also was undefeated at 23 wins with 0 losses and held
the IBF Middleweight Title. A match up between two was
what the public and media demanded and received. On the
2nd of July, the two middleweights fought. The highly
anticipated middleweight bout was an excellent display of
boxing skills by the ever so “talented” Nunn. He went side
to side and used his jab and long reach to keep Tate from
landing any significant blows. Nunn had Tate hurt in the
eighth round and in the ninth round the bout was
legitimately stopped as Tate was out on his feet. Nunn,
who captured the IBF Middleweight Title now improved
his record to 31 wins with 0 losses, while Tate suffered his
first loss. Michael Nunn nicknamed “Second to Nunn” also
was considered to be the best middleweight fighter in the
world. A status he earned and deserved.
On August 4th, IBF Featherweight Title holder Calvin
Grove who was undefeated in 34 fights traveled to Mexico
to face Jorge Paez. Paez, who had a record of 25 wins,
with 2 losses and 1 draw was beginning to become better
known throughout the boxing community. He had won
several fights in a row and with his acrobatic background,
good punching power and entertaining style he was now
given the opportunity to challenge for a title. If he could
win, he not only would capture a title but also be the first
fighter ever to beat Calvin Grove. The bout was carried on
cable and was nothing short of a “tremendous” bout. Early
on Grove, using excellent boxing skills and movement kept
a game Paez at bay. He developed a solid lead on the
scorecards. But Paez, motivated with the crowd behind
him and fighting in his native country, slowly began to
close gaps and even the score. By the thirteenth round
Grove was exhausted and Paez, energized and fresh, was
the fighter in the charge of the bout. In the last and exciting
fifteenth round he knocked Grove down three times which
put him ahead in the bout and enabled him to win a close
split decision. For Paez the win was a career defining
moment. He now held the IBF Featherweight Title and
was the first fighter ever to beat Calvin Grove. Such
achievements put him on the list of boxing’s most popular
fighters and his future in the sport looked bright.
James Kinchen was a middleweight with a record of 45
wins, with 4 losses and 2 draws. For years he was trying
to make a name for himself in the sport. He finally was
matched against a big name opponent in Thomas “Hitman”
Hearns. Years before Kinchen wanted to fight Marvin
Hagler but Hagler, wanting more money for such a bout
declined the offer. Kinchen, a relatively unknown fighter
with good skills, was a solid boxer-puncher in the ring. He
was heavily muscled and always in shape ready to fight.
The bout against Hearns took place on August 16th in the
super middleweight division. During the bout Kinchen
proved he actually could box with one of the best known
fighters in the world. The bout saw Kinchen landing,
covering up well and winning the rounds. Both fighters
had their moments, but Hearns, a great fighter with a club-
fighter’s chin was rocked several times. On one occasion
his legs buckled but he regained his balance and kept
fighting. After twelve rounds Hearns won a controversial
decision. Many felt Kinchen had won but scoring in
boxing can be haphazard and no-one knows what to expect
until the decision is announced. Either way in that bout
Kinchen proved he was a real contender despite being
unknown. He could fight some of the best fighters in the
sport and still hold his own.
Sugar Ray Leonard, a fighter that could just never retire
did another comeback. He agreed to fight Donnie
Lalonde in a bout that was a “throwback” to when two
fighters who wanted to fight would find the nearest weight
division and meet in a bout at that weight. Leonard who
had previously fought as a middleweight would be moving
up to fight Lalonde who was a light heavyweight and the
WBC Lightheavyweight Titleholder. The bout would take
place at 168 pounds, the agreed upon weight and Lalonde’s
Lightheavyweight Title would be at stake. Career-wise
Lalonde was doing quite well. He had victories over Eddie
Davis, Mustafa Hamsho and a big second round knockout
of Leslie Stewart to capture the Title. He was a tremendous
puncher and if he fought Leonard he would have a size
advantage. The bout took place on November 7th.
Leonard, always a fan and media favorite drew
tremendous interest to the bout. This bout had the potential
to be an interesting contest. Could Leonard handle a larger
foe like Lalonde and could Lalonde box with a smaller yet
quicker and great fighter like Leonard? When the bout
began Lalonde looked sharp. He used his punching power
and a sharp jab to keep Leonard on the run. He had a
longer reach and and he used it to his advantage. He even
knocked Leonard down, but Leonard being a true warrior
rose quickly and got right back into action. Using footwork
and hand speed, he closed the gaps. After several rounds
he took the lead. In the ninth round, Leonard landed
numerous combinations on Lalonde the Champion. They
began to take a “toll” on him and Lalonde went down. He
rose and the bout continued. Leonard took to the offense
and went after Lalonde who was in serious trouble. He
went down again and made an effort to rise. He made it to
his feet but his was mouth open indicating fatigue, his
blonde hair was drenched in sweat, his legs were rubbery
and his face showed the accumulation of “blows” from
Leonard. Physically he barely resembled the Donnie
Lalonde with “movie star” looks who had entered the ring
earlier. He was clearly was a beaten fighter. The referee
had to stop the bout. For Leonard who was as talented as
fighters come, he now had another major victory and
another Title on his resume. Also, fans and boxing media
were delighted to see him back in action against a
formidable foe. His comebacks were becoming
commonplace and in them he always seems to deliver the
more popular bouts with great performances.
In other boxing new Mark Beland who had previously
lost to Marlon Starling fought him in a rematch. In this
bout Breland never generated any momentum of any type.
The bout was ruled a draw but most felt Breland had
clearly lost. Also, Greg Haugen avenged a loss to Vinnie
Pazienza in a rematch and regained his Title. Pazienza, a
popular fighter then lost to Roger Mayweather. Against
Pazienza, Mayweather, whose career had gone up and
down put forth his best career showing ever and won a
twelve round decision.
Chapter 10. 1989
Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini who retired in 1985 after
capturing the WBA Lightweight Title career-wise always
had one regret. It was the fact that he had not fought
Hector “ Macho” Camacho. In a comeback bout he decided
to finally meet Camacho in the ring once and for all.
Camacho, an undefeated fighter previously had held the
WBC Super Featherweight Title, the WBC Lightweight
Title, and the WBC Super Lightweight Title. He was still
boxing in 1989 and with his incredible hand and foot speed
had never lost in 33 professional fights. He had had some
close decision wins in years past but always came out on
top. The bout against Mancini, held on March 6th, was
indeed a draw for fans and media. Mancini, the popular
fighter from Youngstown, Ohio, had a large fan base
that were anxious to see him defeat the “flashy" fighter
from New York. Although Mancini had not fought in four
years he came into the bout in great shape. The bout
was fought at the agreed weight of 140 pounds and no
titles were at stake. When the bout began, as expected,
Mancini, chased Camacho around the ring who boxed.
Mancini, consistently stalking Camacho did a good job of
cutting off the ring. He was able to catch up to Camacho
and penetrate his defense. Never a fighter who stood toe-
to-toe the elusive Camacho continually boxed. As the bout
progressed Mancini seem to land bigger punches while
Camacho landed more. Exactly who was winning was the
subject of controversy and debate. After twelve rounds in
which both fighters gave their best effort, the decision was
announced. Most expected the workman like effort of
Mancini to get the win and deliver Camacho his first
professional loss. Instead Camacho won a split decision.
He improved his record to 34 wins with 0 losses and for
Mancini, he retired again. Despite the controversy over the
decision the bout was an excellent contest.
The year 1989 was the year that finally answered the
big question as to whether or not Evander Holyfield could
continue winning in the heavyweight ranks. The Duvas,
who managed Holyfield took a big risk and matched him
against a former Heavyweight Champion who still was in
his prime. That fighter was Michael “Dynamite” Dokes.
Dokes was a 225-pound heavyweight with a record of 37
wins, with 1 loss and 2 draws. Could Holyfield handle
Dokes? Opinions in the boxing community varied.
Everyone agreed it was a big step upward for Holyfield.
Perhaps his management, the Duvas were moving him too
fast. A loss could really set him back career-wise. He
needed a victory to continue advancing in the sport’s most
popular and most profitable division, the heavyweight
division. The bout held on March 11th was as competitive
and exciting as a heavyweight fight could be. Early on
Dokes used his “fast hands” to keep Holyfield at bay.
Holyfield, a fighter with tremendous hand speed and
power, counter punched and was able to catch up to Dokes.
The bout went back and forth with each fighter
showcasing his skills. In the middle rounds Dokes landed
big shots on Holyfield. Many expected Holyfield, a small
heavyweight to “crumble” under the punching power of a
bona-fide heavyweight like Dokes. Holyfield however, had
a great chin and took the best shots Dokes threw in full
stride. Late in the fight Dokes, not known for having good
stamina began to slow down. In the exciting tenth round
Holyfield caught Dokes with a “thunderous” left hook to
the jaw. The left hook was a major turning point in the see-
saw battle. After being hit, Dokes went reeling back into
the ropes and was not on solid legs. Holyfield, realizing
Dokes was vulnerable rushed in to score a knockout. He
vigorously unloaded on Dokes. The referee, seeing Dokes
was “groggy” and out on his feet immediately stopped the
fight. Holyfield had won in an impressive knockout. It was
a knockout victory by Holyfield boxing fans would never
forget. Despite being undersized and underestimated by
many Holyfield proved he was for real in the heavyweight
ranks. Career-wise he was going forward and the big
show down with “Iron” Mike Tyson was getting closer.
The bout between Evander “ The Real Deal” Holyfield
and Michael “Dynamite” Dokes seem to have it all. Two
talented heavyweights giving it their best efforts, a see-saw
battle and a great knockout. Fans enjoyed it thoroughly
and it was definitely a bout from the 1980’s that was a
“classic.”
Michael Nunn seemed to be taking the middleweight
division by storm. He held the IBF Title in that division
and was undefeated in 32 pro fights. With his superior
boxing skills he was just winning fight after fight and was
running out of opposition. Could anyone give him a good
fight or defeat him? On March 25th, he was matched
against a challenger named Sumbu Kalambay who had a
record of 46 wins, with 3 losses and 1 draw. Nunn, a
boxer who was not a big puncher could have hands full
with the formidable Kalambay. The bout, shown on cable
began with Nunn using his boxing skills to be economical
and keeping the game Kalambay at bay. Late in the first
round he caught Kalambay with a left hand that he had no
defense against and it caught him “cold.” The punch
was a “thunderous” knockout punch. It actually “echoed”
throughout the arena with the crowd “gasping” in reaction.
Kalambay went straight to the canvas and had no
chance to beat the count. The referee stopped the fight and
Nunn and his corner celebrated in the ring. For Nunn, it
was a major victory. He proved his worth as a fighter and
now bigger names would be on his horizons and his pay
scale would go up also. The knockout was a one punch
“classic” and was Ring Magazine’s 1989 “Knockout of
the Year.”
Recently turned popular and charismatic Featherweight
Champion Jorge Paez, the pride of Mexico, gave his one
time opponent Calvin Grove a rematch. Their first
meeting was a great fight and the rematch drew fans and
media worldwide. Could Grove learn from his mistakes
and re-capture his Title from Paez? Or could Paez who
seemed to be improving with every outing retain his Title
and defeat Grove. The bout was held on March 30th and
Paez put on a clinic on how to box. He was elusive
defensively and seemed to possess the ability to hit Grove
at will. Grove was much slower than in their first fight
and was just kept losing the rounds. By the eleventh round
Grove was out of resources and had taken too many shots.
The bout was stopped and Paez won convincingly.
Boxing fans were intrigued by Paez and his newly found
level of boxing skill and wild antics. He was a good
fighter and he was entertaining. A new face in the sport
that fans and media related to.
The summer of 1989 brought the rise of Donavon
“Razor” Ruddock to the public. On July 2nd, he fought
former Heavyweight Champion James “Bonecrusher”
Smith. At that junction Ruddock was entering a new stage
of his career and beginning to peak. With a few more solid
wins he was a fighter en-route to a title shot. His record
was 15 wins, with 1 loss and 1 draw. His draw was early
on in his career and lone loss was due to an asthma attack.
Currently, he was already being discussed as a future
opponent for “Iron” Mike Tyson. The bout against
Smith was shown on network television. During the bout
Ruddock used his shovel like punch to keep Smith at bay
and on the receiving end of his punches. Smith, a large
heavyweight who can punch was able to knock Ruddock to
the canvas, but Ruddock rose. In the seventh round
Ruddock landed a big left hook on Smith. It sent him
reeling into the ropes and then to the canvas with a
“contorted” look on his face which offered fans a vivid
display of the punching power of Ruddock. Smith
could not beat the count and the bout was stopped.
Ruddock got the win and boxing fans and media
were looking forward to his next outing in the ring. He
was a heavyweight prospect on the rise and if he could
keep winning in stunning fashion a future showdown with
“Iron” Mike Tyson could be in the works.
Carl Williams, a heavyweight with a record of 20 wins
with 2 losses was finally given a title shot. Williams,
known for being hit with left hooks and for not using his
reach and jab when boxing opponents was facing “Iron”
Mike Tyson for the Heavyweight Championship. Some in
the boxing community felt he had the skills to give Tyson a
good fight but he needed to fight a certain style to win. He
needed to box and use the ring, not stand toe- to-toe with
a big puncher like Mike Tyson. However the bout, held
on July 21st, showed Williams naively standing toe-to-toe
with Tyson. In the first round Williams was hit by a left
hook and he rose but was still delirious and the referee
stopped the fight. Another Mike Tyson victory who
seemed practically invincible in the ring. Could
anyone in the heavyweight division beat Tyson?
Virgil Hill, the most popular professional boxer North
Dakota ever produced and known as the “dark horse” in the
1984 Olympics was still undefeated career-wise. He
currently held the WBA Lightheavyweight Title.
Everytime he fought in North Dakota the arena sold out
without question. His ability to draw fans in his home
state was incredible. On October 24th, in a bout that
took place in North Dakota he fought veteran James
Kinchen and won handedly in a first round knockout. He
landed a combination that sent Kinchen down to the
canvas outside the ropes. He rose but the referee
rightfully stopped the fight. The crowd went crazy
as Hill, proving himself to be pound-for-pound one of
boxing best fighters in the world scored a first round
knockout. Hill, improved his record to 26 wins with 0
losses and in the light heavyweight division was starting to
become known as a fighter that just could not be beat. The
bout against Kinchen was shown on ESPN and as a fighter
Hill was at his absolute best.
In other noteworthy boxing news that year Mark Breland
on the comeback scored a first round knockout over Seung
Soon Lee. Also, Michael Nunn beat Iran Barkley and
Tommy “The Duke” Morrison fought nineteen times that
year winning every single bout. Morrison, a big puncher
from the small town of Jay, Oklahoma, was beginning to
emerge as a real heavyweight contender. He was a former
toughman competitor and had a tremendous left hook.
Boxing fans would be hearing a lot more about the
youthful and charismatic Morrison in the near future.
Conclusion.
The era that saw performer Michael Jackson achieve
“superstar” status and the television show “Family
Ties” become popular as well as the group “New Kids on
the Block” emerge came to an end as was decade was
finalized. It also brought an end to 1980’s boxing. It was
an exciting time for boxing fans. It was a time when many
top fighters put forth their best efforts to keep boxing fans
in “awe” with many great fights and there were many.
Whether it was the epic battle between “Marvelous”
Marvin Hagler and Thomas “ Hitman” Hearns or the
classic heavyweight showdown between Larry Holmes
“The Easton Assassin” and “Gentleman” Gerry Cooney or
“The “Brawl in Montreal” when Roberto Duran the
“Hands of Stone” and “Sugar” Ray Leonard clashed; there
was just no shortage of “excitement” for boxing fans in the
1980’s. The decade was truly action packed. For boxing
fans it was not only a great era to experience but just as
good to look back and reflect on. It offered the best in
boxing for appreciative fans.
Extras.
Tribute to Davey Moore.
Davey Moore. (1959-1988) Gone But Not Forgotten
Boxing Fans from the 1980’s will always remember the
late Davey Moore. A jr. middleweight who had a career
record of 18 wins with 5 losses. Davey was born in Bronx,
New York, on June 9th, 1959. He was a very talented
fighter with an impressive amateur career. With only seven
pro bouts under his belt he traveled to Japan and won a
World Title, scoring a sixth round TKO over Tadashi,
Mihara, to take the WBA Title on February 2nd, 1982.
With the odds against him he successfully defended the belt
three months later in South Africa against Charlie Weir,
winning by knockout in the sixth round. In a bout in
which he is most widely known for he lost the crown to the
legendary Roberto Duran via an eighth round TKO at
Madison Square Garden on June 16th, 1983. As a fighter
Moore always entered the ring in superb condition and
fought to the best of his abilities. A true puncher, he was
indeed a fan favorite. Tragically Davey passed away in
1988 at age 28. His life and career seemed all too short.
However boxing fans will always remember him for his
efforts and skills. Gone but not forgotten, Davey Moore is
still alive in the hearts and minds of his many fans.
Publishing and Author Information.
Published by Instantpublisher in Collierville, Tennessee. The author, Pat Dwyer, is a free lance writer and can be reached at the email below. He has also published the books, “Professional Boxing. An Inside Review of Major Bouts” and “Professional Boxing’s Palookas, Tomato Cans and Opponents. An Inside Look.”
Both are pictured.
[email protected]
The watercolor of Gerry Cooney vs. Larry Holmes as well as the illustration of Marvin Hagler was provided by Coyote Duran. He is an artist and can be reached on line at www.coyoteduran.com The watercolor or illustration cannot be distributed or used without his permission.
Copyright Watercolor/Illustration of Marvin Hagler: Coyote Duran
The illustration of Mike Tyson was done by Trent Stude. He is a boxing writer in Overland Park Kansas. The illustration cannot be distributed or used without his written permission.
Copyright Illustration of Mike Tyson: Trent Stude
The covers to the issues of the 1980’s era Boxing Magazines was provided by SEP,LLC. They cannot be distributed or used without their written permission.
Copyright Boxing Magazines: SEP, LLC publication
1980'S BOXING BOOK. I THINK IT UPLOADED.......PD
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vatech1983
- Heavyweight
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