25 years ago

Date: 5th June 1999

Venue: Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff, Wales

Title: WBO World Super-middleweight Title

Promoter: Frank Warren

Tv: Sky Sports

Joe Calzaghe
( 26 - 0 - 0 )
Weight: 167 1/2 lbs

Rick Thornberry
( 23 - 2 - 0 )
Weight: 167 lbs

The fourth defence of Joe Calzaghe's reign as WBO World Super-middleweight champion came against 31-year-old Australian Rick Thornberry at the Motorpoint Arena in Cardiff.

Four months earlier, Calzaghe had won a close, hard-fought decision against former WBC titleholder Robin Reid in a fight that some believed Reid deserved at least a draw from.

Promoter Frank Warren selected Thornberry as a softer defence for the champion after his struggle against Reid, and while the local hero won a wide unanimous decision, Thornberry lasted till the final bell despite visiting the canvas in the 2nd round.

Scores: Harold Gomes 120-107 | Dave Parris 119-109 | Rocky Young 119-108

Calzaghe's well-documented hand troubles around this time allowed his opponents the chance to stay competitive against the more skillfully blessed champion.

In March 2006, Thornberry travelled to Magdeburg, Germany to challenge IBF World champion Sven Ottke, losing a unanimous decision.