42 years ago

Date: 21st November 1981

Title: WBC World Lightweight Title

Promoter: Azteca Promotions

Tv: ESPN

Alexis Arguello
( 68 - 5 - 0 )
Weight: 135 lbs

Roberto Elizondo
( 23 - 1 - 0 )
Weight: 133¾ lbs

On Saturday, November 21, 1981, boxing returned to the Showboat Hotel & Casino, Sports Pavilion, in Las Vegas. The event was promoted by Azteca Promotions and featured a clash between Nicaraguan boxing legend Alexis Arguello and Roberto Elizondo from Corpus Christi, Texas. The fight was for the WBC World Lightweight Title, with Arguello defending the title for the second time. The highly experienced Arguello came into the match with a record of 68-5-0, while Elizondo boasted a record of 23-1-0.

Both fighters weighed in at their respective limits, with Arguello tipping the scales at 135 lbs and Elizondo coming in slightly lighter at 133¾ lbs. The fight was broadcasted on ESPN. As the match commenced, referee Joey Curtis took charge of the proceedings.

Arguello, known for his powerful and deadly accurate punches, began the fight by patiently studying Elizondo's movements and finding opportunities to land his shots. On the other hand, Elizondo tried to use his speed and agility to counter Arguello's attacks but struggled to find much success against the experienced Nicaraguan.

As the fight progressed, Arguello's experience and technical prowess became increasingly apparent. The Nicaraguan fighter found openings in Elizondo's defense, landing hard punches that gradually wore down the Texan challenger. Despite his valiant efforts, Elizondo could not keep pace with Arguello's relentless assault.

The turning point in the match came in the seventh round when Arguello unleashed a straight right hand that sent Elizondo to the canvas. Not long after Roberto rose, a devastating right uppercut to the solar plexus floored the challenger for the second time. Referee Joey Curtis closely monitored the situation, and after assessing Elizondo's condition, decided to stop the fight at 3:07 in round 7.