85 years ago

Date: 10th January 1939

Title: World Welterweight Title

Promoter: Joe Waterman

Henry Armstrong
( 91 - 11 - 7 )
Weight: 134½ lbs

Baby Arizmendi
( 85 - 16 - 14 )
Weight: 136 lbs

On January 10, 1939, a historic event unfolded at the Olympic Auditorium in Los Angeles, California. It was the fifth and final clash between two of boxing's prominent welterweights: Henry Armstrong and Baby Arizmendi. This bout, a 10-round contest for the World Welterweight Title, drew a sellout crowd of 10,400 eager spectators.

Armstrong, a lean and agile fighter weighing in at 134 pounds, had already made a name for himself in the boxing world, having secured world titles in three different weight classes. Arizmendi, a Mexican fighter known for his endurance and resilience, tipped the scales at 136 pounds. He was determined to change the course of their previous four encounters, setting the stage for a clash of styles and strengths.

The fight kicked off with a fierce, head-to-head battle, a trademark of their rivalry. Armstrong, relentless in his pressure and high work rate, quickly took control of the contest. He launched a barrage of punches from all angles, showcasing his superior speed and accuracy. Arizmendi, to his credit, fought back valiantly, but found himself on the receiving end of Armstrong's onslaught.

As the rounds progressed, it became increasingly evident that Armstrong was the superior fighter. According to the Los Angeles Times, Arizmendi won only one round outright, with perhaps an even break in three others. Armstrong's dominance was such that he cut Arizmendi over both eyes by the end of the fight, a testament to the punishment he had inflicted upon his opponent.

The judges' scorecards confirmed what most observers had already concluded: Henry Armstrong had emerged victorious once again, winning a clear and unanimous decision over Baby Arizmendi. Referee George Blake, who had overseen the action from close quarters, raised Armstrong's hand triumphantly as the sellout crowd erupted in applause.

The victory marked the end of a remarkable five-fight series between Armstrong and Arizmendi, which had begun nearly five years earlier in Mexico City. Arizmendi had gotten the better of Armstrong in their first two meetings, winning by points in both contests. However, Armstrong had since turned the tables, winning their subsequent three encounters, including a unanimous decision victory in their fourth meeting on March 15, 1938, held at the Olympic Auditorium.

Armstrong's dominance over Arizmendi in their final encounter cemented his status as one of the greatest fighters of his generation. His ability to adapt, improve, and overcome adversity was a testament to his skill, determination, and unwavering spirit. Arizmendi, while never able to defeat Armstrong in their final three meetings, earned the respect of fans and pundits alike for his courage and resilience in the face of a superior opponent.