85 years ago

Date: 30th October 1939

Title: World Welterweight Title

Promoter: Lou Viscusi

Henry Armstrong
( 100 - 12 - 7 )
Weight: 140 lbs

Bobby Pacho
( 123 - 55 - 20 )
Weight: 146 lbs

On October 30, 1939, the Municipal Auditorium in Denver, Colorado, hosted a bout for the World Welterweight Title. Henry Armstrong, the reigning champion, faced off against the seasoned contender Bobby Pacho. Armstrong, known for his relentless fighting style and remarkable stamina, came into the ring weighing 140 lbs, while Pacho tipped the scales at 146 lbs. This fight was promoted by the well-known Denver boxing promoter Lou Viscusi and officiated by referee Jack Bloom.

Armstrong, boasting a formidable record of 100 wins, 12 losses, and seven draws, was in prime form, having recently successfully defended his title. With a record of 123 wins, 55 losses, and 20 draws, Pacho was no stranger to the ring either, bringing a wealth of experience.

This encounter was a rematch of their previous clash just seven months earlier, held at the Tropical Stadium in Havana, Cuba. Armstrong had asserted his dominance with a 4th-round technical knockout in that fight, showcasing his superior skill and endurance. Fans and pundits were keen to see if Pacho had devised a strategy to counter Armstrong's relentless assault.

From the opening bell, Armstrong demonstrated why he was the reigning champion. His aggressive style kept Pacho on the defensive, with Armstrong landing powerful combinations that visibly shook his opponent. Despite Pacho's attempts to mount a counteroffensive, Armstrong's pace and precision proved overwhelming. By the 4th round, it was clear that Armstrong's relentless pressure was too much for Pacho. With a series of brutal punches, Armstrong forced the referee, Jack Bloom, to step in and halt the bout, awarding Armstrong another technical knockout victory in the 4th round.