42 years ago
Arturo Frias vs Ray Mancini
Date: 8th May 1982
Venue: The Aladdin, Las Vegas, NevadaTitle: WBA World Lightweight Title
Promoter: Top Rank
Tv: CBS Sports Saturday
Arturo Frias
(
24
-
1
-
0
)
Weight: 134½ lbs
Ray Mancini
(
22
-
1
-
0
)
Weight: 135 lbs
On Saturday, May 8, 1982, a highly anticipated fight took place at The Aladdin in Las Vegas between Ray Mancini of Youngstown, Ohio and Arturo Frias from San Diego, California. The bout, promoted by Top Rank and refereed by Richard Green, featured Mancini's attempt to capture the WBA World Lightweight Title from Frias, who was defending the title for the second time. Mancini entered the fight with a 22-1-0 record, ranked No. 3 by the WBA, while Frias held a 24-1-0 record. Both fighters weighed in close to the limit, with Mancini at 135 lbs and Frias at 134½ lbs.
The fight was aired on CBS Sports Saturday and had added significance as Mancini sought redemption following a loss to Alexis Arguello for the WBC Lightweight Championship just seven months prior. The contest began with intensity as Frias, despite lacking Mancini's sculpted physique, demonstrated equal desire and physical strength. Within the first 30 seconds, Frias staggered Mancini with a left hook to the chin and aggressively pursued his opponent.
The initial exchange saw both fighters suffer cuts, with Mancini's left eyelid and Frias' area under the left eye being affected. However, Mancini managed to regain composure and, with less than a minute remaining in the round, wobbled Frias with a powerful left hook. Mancini capitalized on this opportunity by unleashing a flurry of punches, ultimately dropping the champion with another left hook.
Frias managed to rise and take the mandatory eight-count, but Mancini continued his relentless assault, forcing Frias against the ropes. Recognizing the severity of the situation, referee Richard Green stepped in to stop the fight at 2:54 of the first round. The bout became renowned for its spectacular opening round and marked a triumphant moment in Mancini's career.
Arturo Frias vs Ray Mancini on YouTube
