24 years ago

Date: 16th December 2000

Venue: Sheffield Arena, Yorkshire, UK

Title: WBO World Super-middleweight Title

Promoter: Frank Warren

Referee: Roy Francis

Tv: Sky Sports

Joe Calzaghe
( 29 - 0 - 0 )
Weight: 167 3/4 lbs

Richie Woodhall
( 26 - 2 - 0 )
Weight: 167 1/2 lbs

On December 16, 2000, at the Sheffield Arena, Joe Calzaghe defended his WBO World Super-Middleweight title against Richie Woodhall in a bout that matched two of the most respected British fighters of the era. Calzaghe, the unbeaten champion with a record of 29-0-0, weighed in at 167¾ lbs, while Woodhall, the challenger and former WBC titleholder, came in slightly lighter at 167½ lbs. Promoted by Frank Warren and aired on Sky Sports, the fight carried significant anticipation, pitting Calzaghe’s relentless aggression against Woodhall’s technical expertise and Olympic pedigree.

The opening round set the tone as Calzaghe wasted no time asserting himself, landing heavy shots that visibly rocked Woodhall. Despite the early adversity, the challenger responded with discipline, relying on his sharp jab and movement to keep the fight competitive. Woodhall demonstrated his experience and ring IQ as the rounds unfolded, picking moments to frustrate Calzaghe and stealing rounds with well-timed counters.

However, the champion’s relentless pace began to take its toll. By the ninth round, Calzaghe’s sustained pressure overwhelmed Woodhall, culminating in a decisive knockdown that shifted the momentum. Sensing an opportunity to close the show, Calzaghe poured on the offence in the tenth. With Woodhall trapped on the ropes and absorbing a flurry of unanswered punches, referee Roy Francis stepped in to halt the contest, awarding Calzaghe a TKO victory.

This marked Calzaghe’s seventh successful defence of his WBO title, further solidifying his dominance in the super-middleweight division. For Woodhall, the bout signalled the end of a distinguished career, as he announced his retirement shortly afterwards. The fight remains a testament to both fighters’ skill and determination, encapsulating an era of British boxing defined by respect and competitive excellence.