Roland LaStarza vs. Rocky Jones (1st meeting)
Roland LaStarza 190 lbs lost to Rocky Jones 179 lbs by UD in round 10 of 10
- Date: 1952-10-09
- Location: Armory, Akron, Ohio, USA
- Referee: Eddie Atlas 2-4
- Judge: Lincoln Hackim 3-4
- Judge: Art Wigley 3-4
"Rocky Jones of Chester, Pa. scored an upset victory last night by winning a unanimous decision over Roland LaStarza, the nation's 3rd-ranked heavyweight, in a 10-round bout at the Armory. LaStarza, who appeared slow after a five-month layoff, weighed 190 to 179 for Jones. Jones opened a cut over the New York battler's left eye in the 5th round and the eye dripped blood and bothered LaStarza for the remainder of the bout. He protested bitterly about the blow after the fight, claiming Jones butted him. There were no knockdowns and neither fighter was in danger. Jones, shifty and fast, scored effectively with a left jab and a looping right. LaStarza's best round probably was the 9th when he backed Jones into a corner and pounded him with both hands. The Pennsylvania puncher fought his way out, however, and was storming back at LaStarza when the bell sounded." -Associated Press
- Judge Art Wigley's actual score was 3-3-4 Even, but was allowed to give an additional point to Jones.
- Promoter Bob Heath hoped to sign a rematch between the two fighters but the rematch was signed by the Eastern Parkway Arena in Brooklyn
- Attendance - 1,400
- Gate - $3,000 (app.)