Carlos Monzon vs Denny Moyer

At Rome's PalaEur on March 4, 1972, Carlos Monzon's WBA and WBC middleweight title defence against Denny Moyer ended in controversy, overshadowing an evenly-matched contest. Both fighters weighed 159 pounds, though Monzon held a significant height advantage over the 32-year-old American challenger.

Through four rounds, Moyer's superior speed and defensive skills neutralized Monzon's aggressive approach. The shorter challenger effectively ducked under Monzon's power shots while countering with precise combinations, creating a competitive back-and-forth affair that engaged the Italian crowd.

The fight's controversial conclusion came at 1:50 of the fifth round. Monzon landed a mighty right hand on Moyer's chin, sending him reeling across the ring. Referee Lorenzo Fortunato initiated a count, reaching eight before unexpectedly declaring the fight over and raising Monzon's hand in victory. The abrupt stoppage sparked immediate outrage - Moyer, appearing steady on his feet, protested vigorously while spectators pelted the ring with fruit and jeered the champion.

The crowd's reaction transformed from support to hostility, with chants of "clown" following Monzon from the ring. The premature stoppage by the Argentinian referee tainted what had been developing into a compelling championship contest, with Moyer's technical proficiency matching Monzon's power through the early rounds.