Boxing Only


102 years ago

Johnny Dundee vs Elino Flores

Date: 2nd February 1923

Venue: Madison Square Garden, New York, USA

Title: World Junior Lightweight Title

Referee: Patsy Haley

Johnny Dundee
( 183 - 48 - 43 )
Weight: 129¾ lbs

Elino Flores
( 35 - 5 - 8 )
Weight: 128½ lbs


On February 2, 1923, Madison Square Garden witnessed another historic bout in the career of Johnny Dundee, the first universally recognized junior lightweight champion. Dundee, who tipped the scales at 129¾ lbs, was defending his third title against the Filipino challenger, Elino Flores, who weighed in at 128½ lbs. The event was overseen by referee Patsy Haley and added another chapter to Dundee's illustrious career in the newly established junior lightweight division.

Johnny Dundee had secured his place in boxing history when he became the inaugural champion of the junior lightweight division on November 18, 1921, following a disqualification victory over George' KO' Chaney. Since then, Dundee had successfully defended his title twice, with unanimous decision victories against Jackie Sharkey and Vincent "Pepper" Martin. Additionally, Dundee had also clinched the NYSAC World Featherweight title amidst these defences, showcasing his dominance across weight classes.

The fight against Elino Flores marked Dundee's third defence of his junior lightweight title and was steeped in expectation. Flores, a respected fighter within the Asian boxing scene, had previously held the Orient Featherweight and Lightweight Titles and was making his first title challenge in the United States. The previous year, his transition to the American boxing scene started with a bout against Johnny Shugrue in Oakland, New Jersey, setting the stage for this significant title fight.

From the opening bell, the bout was a display of Dundee's experience and ring craft. Despite Flores' resilience and fighting spirit, which saw him rise from the canvas four times, Dundee's skill and strategic prowess were evident. The fight stretched to the full 15 rounds, showcasing Flores' durability and Dundee's controlled aggression. Ultimately, the endurance and tactical execution of Johnny Dundee carried the day as he retained his title through to the final bell.

While the judges' scores were not explicitly recorded in the available historical documents, the outcome was clear: Dundee secured a victory by decision after the scheduled 15 rounds. This fight reinforced Dundee's status as the Junior Lightweight world champion. It highlighted Flores' tenacity and ability to compete at the highest level despite the formidable challenge.




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