35 years ago

Date: 13th January 1990

Title: WBA World Super Middleweight Title

Promoter: Ho Yun Jun

Referee: Pinit Prayadsab

In Chul Baek
( 46 - 2 - 0 )
Weight: 168 lbs

Yoshiaki Tajima
( 9 - 4 - 1 )
Weight: 166½ lbs

In Chul Baek vs Yoshiaki Tajima: A Display of Dominance in Ulsan

In the world of boxing, some matches resonate through time due to their sheer intensity, skill, and the story they tell. One such bout was the WBA world super-middleweight title fight between South Korea's In Chul Baek and Japan's Yoshiaki Tajima. Held at the Hyundai Gymnasium in Ulsan, South Korea, on January 13, 1990, this clash was more than just a title defense; it was a display of Baek's dominance in the super-middleweight division.

In Chul Baek, a name revered in South Korean boxing circles, was making his second title defense since snatching the crown from Venezuelan Fulgencio Obelmejias in May 1989. Baek's victory over Obelmejias at the Hongkuk Gymnasium in Yeosu wasn't just a win; it was a statement - an 11th round TKO that announced Baek as a force to be reckoned with in the super-middleweight class. His first title defense against American Ron Essett in October 1989 followed a similar script, another 11th round TKO, reinforcing Baek's reputation as a late-round powerhouse.

Enter Yoshiaki Tajima, a skilled and determined challenger from Japan. Tajima stepped into the ring with the hopes of his nation, looking to upset Baek in his backyard. However, from the opening bell, it was evident that Baek was in a league of his own. The champion, known for his relentless pressure and punishing power, began to dismantle Tajima's defenses methodically.

Referee Pinit Prayadsab had a relatively easy night, overseeing a bout that was less about competition and more a showcase of Baek's skill and strength. The three ringside judges - Manny Pinol, Lou Tabat, and Fritz Werner - all had Baek leading by a significant margin, with scores of 70-62, 70-60, and 70-60, respectively. These scores reflected the one-sided nature of the contest, as Baek dominated each round with his aggressive style and

impressive technique.

Tajima, to his credit, displayed tremendous heart and resilience. Despite the overwhelming onslaught from Baek, he never stopped trying to turn the tide. His efforts, however, were in vain against a champion in his prime. Baek's ability to control the pace and rhythm of the fight was evident. He used his jab effectively to keep Tajima at bay while setting up powerful combinations that consistently broke through his defenses.

The South Korean champion's strategy was clear – wear down the challenger with an accumulation of punches, and then finish the job in the later rounds, as he had done in his previous two title fights. Baik's stamina and endurance were exceptional, showing no signs of fatigue as the fight progressed, a testament to his rigorous training and preparation.

The Ulsan crowd was vociferously behind their champion, creating an electrifying atmosphere in the Hyundai Gymnasium. Each of Baek's punches was met with roars of approval, and as the fight wore on, the sense of inevitability about the outcome grew stronger.