Eusebio Pedroza vs Pat Ford

On February 14, 1981, Eusebio Pedroza successfully defended his WBA World Featherweight title for the twelfth time against Pat Ford at the Gimnasio Nuevo Panama in Panama City, Panama. Panaprom promoted the bout, with Larry Rozadilla serving as the referee. Both fighters weighed 125¾ lbs, indicating a closely matched contest on paper. However, the fight told a different story, as Pedroza's skill and experience ultimately proved too much for the challenger.

A Guyanese boxer, Pat Ford had previously challenged Salvador Sanchez for the WBC featherweight title just a few months prior, losing by a majority decision. Despite his recent experience at the top level, Ford struggled to adapt to Pedroza's style. The Panamanian champion's slick movements and precise punching allowed him to control the pace of the fight. Ford's inability to effectively counter Pedroza's tactics led to him being knocked out in the 13th round. After the fight, Ford attributed his defeat to difficulties with weight loss, suggesting that this may have impacted his performance.

Eusebio Pedroza's victory over Ford was part of a remarkable title reign that would eventually see him attempt to make 20 successful defences. However, his reign came to an end in June 1985 when he lost to Barry McGuigan in London. Pedroza's career was marked by his impressive record and induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. He retired with a record of 42 wins, 6 losses, and one draw, with 25 of those wins coming by way of knockout. Pedroza passed away on March 1, 2019, just a day before his 63rd birthday.