19 years ago

Date: 29th January 2005

Venue: Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City, New Jersey

Title: WBC World Super-lightweight Title

Promoter: Main Events

Referee: Albert Earl Brown

Tv: HBO World Championship Boxing

Arturo Gatti
( 38 - 6 - 0 )
Weight: 140 lbs

Jesse James Leija
( 47 - 6 - 2 )
Weight: 140 lbs

On Saturday, January 29, 2005, at the Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey, Arturo Gatti, from nearby Jersey City and Jesse James Leija from San Antonio, Texas, met for the WBC World Super-lightweight Title. Gatti, with a record of 38-6-0, was defending his title for the second time, while Leija held a record of 47-6-2 and held this title in 1994.

Both fighters weighed in at 140 lbs, with Gatti holding a significant height and reach advantage over his opponent. Standing at 173 cm tall, Gatti towered over the 165 cm Leija. His reach of 178 cm also gave him an 8 cm advantage over Leija's 170 cm reach, although both fighters shared the same ape index of 5 cm. These physical differences proved to be significant factors during the match.

The fight was closely contested in the early rounds, with both Gatti and Leija showcasing their skills and determination to claim the title. Referee Albert Earl Brown ensured that the bout was conducted fairly, while the judges—John Stewart, Julie Lederman, and Guido Cavalleri—kept a close eye on the action. The match was broadcast live on HBO World Championship Boxing.

As the fight progressed, Gatti's power and reach advantage began to take its toll on Leija. In the fifth round, Gatti managed to knock down Leija twice, asserting his dominance in the bout. At 1:48 into the fifth round, Gatti scored a decisive knockout, securing his victory and retaining the WBC World Super-lightweight Title for the second time.

Following this defeat, Jesse James Leija made the decision to retire from professional boxing. He announced his retirement a week after the match, marking the end of an illustrious career.