Ike Williams vs. Willie Joyce (4th meeting)

Ike Williams 138 lbs lost to Willie Joyce 136 lbs by SD in round 10 of 10

• Date: 1945-06-08
• Location: Madison Square Garden, New York, New York, USA
• Scoring: 5-3-2, 6-4, 4-6.
• Joyce was knocked down in the 10th for a two count, but arose and floored Williams.

"Willie Joyce gave the 'smart money' boys as well as Ike Williams a beating at MSG last night. Joyce whipped the NBA lightweight champion for the 3rd time in their four meetings. He gained a 10-round split decision in the non-title affair after each had floored the other in one of the most furious last rounds in Garden history. The crowd screamed and yelled as Williams, behind on points, nailed Joyce with a short right to the chin early in the last round and Willie crumpled to the canvas. He was up at two and, striking back furiously, floored Williams for a one count. Seconds later he all but knocked Ike through the ropes. Williams kept himself from going down by grabbing the top strand. They slugged it out toe-to-toe the rest of the round with both landing punishing blows." -Associated Press

• Before the fight, NYSAC chairman Col. Eddie Egan, visited both fighters due to rumors that 'the fix was in' and warned both that he would suspend them if he detected the slightest dishonest effort put forth. After the bout he revisited both fighters and congratulated them on their fine efforts.
• The officials for this bout were referee Johnny Burns and judge Marty Monroe, who both voted for Joyce. The second judge was Harold Barnes, who scored for Williams.
• Unofficial AP scorecard - 6-4 Joyce
• Attendance - 12,491
• Gate - $53,016

Post-fight comment

• "You were wonderful, Willie. That was the greatest last round I've ever seen in boxing." -Col. Eddie Egan of the NYSAC, to Willie Joyce.
• "That was a great fight. You fought hard and had tough luck. Congratulations." -Col. Eddie Egan, to Ike Williams