72 years ago
Joey Maxim vs Archie Moore
Date: 17th December 1952
Venue: Arena, Saint Louis, Missouri
Title: World Light Heavyweight Title
Promoter: International Boxing Club
Referee: Harry Kessler
Tv: Cinematic Film
Joey Maxim
(
79
-
18
-
4
)
Weight: 174½ lbs
Archie Moore
(
133
-
19
-
8
)
Weight: 172½ lbs
Joey Maxim, the reigning champion, held an impressive record of 79-18-4 heading into his third world Light-heavyweight title defense against Archie Moore. A resident of Cleveland, Ohio, Maxim had most notably claimed a win over Sugar Ray Robinson due to heat exhaustion after 14 rounds. Maxim tipped the scales at 174½ lbs, two pounds more than Moore, but it was the latter's experience and resilience that would ultimately tip the scales in his favor.
The match, promoted by the International Boxing Club and refereed by Harry Kessler, was held at Arena, Saint Louis, Missouri. The crowd watched in anticipation as the two champions locked horns in the square circle. The competition was stiff, but Moore, who had spent years waiting for this opportunity, fought with an indomitable spirit. With every round, he inched closer to the World Light-Heavyweight Title that had eluded him for so long.
Moore showcased his exemplary boxing skills throughout the 15 rounds, hitting Maxim with powerful right hands and maintaining a good defensive stance. Maxim, on the other hand, found himself on the receiving end of Moore's relentless offense. Despite Maxim's sturdy resistance and efforts to retort, Moore's superior boxing prowess was evident as he successfully controlled the tempo of the fight.
After 15 grueling rounds, Moore had finally achieved what he had yearned for - a victory that was denied to him for a good part of his career. The judges scored the bout in Moore's favor, with scores of 76-74, 87-63, and 82-68. Moore was announced the winner via unanimous decision, winning the World Light-Heavyweight Title, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career.
Following his victory over Maxim, Moore continued his winning streak, holding onto the World Light-Heavyweight title for nearly ten years. His record would ultimately stand at an astonishing 132 knockouts, the most in boxing history. Despite the occasional setbacks, Moore's legacy is a testament to his extraordinary career, perseverance, and indomitable spirit.