1983: Roberto Duran Defies Expectations and Triumphs Over Davey Moore
Roberto Duran, known for his remarkable career as a fighter, participated in a total of 119 professional bouts. However, one of his most unforgettable encounters was with Davey Moore, who had successfully defended his WBA Light Middleweight title on three previous occasions.
Interestingly, despite being in front of a hometown New York crowd, Moore faced some jeering from the audience, while the Panamanian Duran received cheers as they both stepped into the ring.
This early response set the stage for the remainder of the fight, as Duran, nicknamed “Stone Hands,” subjected Moore to a severe beating. The bout was eventually halted, with Moore still standing at the end of the eighth round.
Prior to the fight, the majority of boxing experts had predicted a victory for the much younger Moore, underestimating Duran, who had turned 32 on that very day. However, as Duran lifted another title belt, he was serenaded by the New York crowd with a heartfelt rendition of “Happy Birthday,” symbolizing his triumphant return to the top.
2004: Antonio Tarver Stuns Roy Jones Jr. in a Thrilling Battle
Following his victory over John Ruiz in 2003 to secure the WBA Heavyweight Championship, Roy Jones Jr.’s light heavyweight titles became vacant and were subsequently claimed by Antonio Tarver.
Eager to reclaim his position of prominence, Jones faced Tarver for the first time in 2003. In a closely contested match, Tarver emerged victorious by decision.
However, it is worth noting that Jones had undergone a significant weight loss, shedding 24 pounds within a short period to prepare for the fight. As a result, he entered the ring with less than optimal strength.
A rematch was scheduled, driven by Jones’ desire for redemption. Both boxing enthusiasts and betting enthusiasts were taken aback when Tarver landed a powerful left-hand shot on Jones in the second round, delivering the first knockout defeat of Jones’ career.
Encounters like these epitomize the excitement of boxing! Fans are captivated by the unpredictable nature of the sport, where the underdog can either suffer a knockout or produce a stunning victory against their opponent.
1994: George Foreman’s Inspiring Triumph over Michael Moorer
Despite being known as one of the fiercest competitors of his era, few believed George Foreman could tap into his former boxing prowess after a decade-long hiatus from the sport.
However, the accomplished fighter and entrepreneur embarked on an incredible unbeaten streak of 24 matches, earning himself a shot at the WBA, IBF, and Lineal Titles against Michael Moorer.
Moorer had made history as the first southpaw to claim the heavyweight championship, defeating Evander Holyfield in a thrilling 12-round bout just seven months prior.
Despite being nearly two decades older, Foreman was seen as the underdog, with the majority of the crowd favoring Moorer.
Most experts predicted that if the fight went the distance, it would favor Moorer. However, the unexpected unfolded.
A powerful combination in the 10th round sent Moorer to the canvas, securing Foreman’s place as the oldest heavyweight champion in history.
1964: Muhammad Ali’s Remarkable Victory over Sonny Liston
Both encounters between Ali and Liston were highly anticipated and remain among the most captivating moments in sports history.