84 years ago

Date: 26th April 1940

Venue: Boston Garden, Boston, Massachusetts

Title: World Welterweight Title

Promoter: Rip Valenti

Henry Armstrong
( 104 - 12 - 8 )
Weight: 139½ lbs

Paul Junior
( 163 - 20 - 14 )
Weight: 141 lbs

On April 26, 1940, Henry Armstrong, the legendary three-division world champion, stepped into the ring at the Boston Garden in Boston, Massachusetts, to face the formidable Paul Junior in a 15-round bout. Armstrong, weighing in at 139½ pounds, put on a masterful performance, stopping his 141-pound opponent by technical knockout at 1:05 of the seventh round.

Armstrong wasted no time asserting his dominance over Junior from the opening bell. In the first round, Armstrong scored two knockdowns, setting the tone for the remainder of the fight. To his credit, Junior showed tremendous heart and resilience, getting back to his feet and continuing to battle against the relentless Armstrong.

Armstrong's superior skills and punching power became increasingly evident as the rounds progressed. The former featherweight, welterweight, and lightweight champion showcased his trademark aggressive style, constantly pressing forward and unleashing a barrage of punches from all angles.

Armstrong scored another knockdown in the sixth round, further emphasizing his control over the bout. Junior could not mount an effective offence against the swarming Armstrong despite his best efforts.

The seventh round proved to be the turning point of the fight. Sensing that Junior was on the brink of defeat, Armstrong intensified his attack. He sent Junior crashing to the canvas twice more, leaving the battered fighter reeling and on the verge of going down again.

Referee Johnny Martin, recognizing the one-sided nature of the contest and Junior's inability to defend himself effectively, wisely stopped the fight at 1:05 of the seventh round. Armstrong was declared the winner by technical knockout, further cementing his status as one of boxing's most dominant forces.