27 years ago
Johnny Tapia vs Rodolfo Blanco
Date: 13th February 1998
Venue: University Arena, Albuquerque, New Mexico
Title: IBF & WBO World Super-flyweight Titles
Promoter: Don King Productions
Referee: Tony Rosales
Tv: Showtime Championship Boxing
Johnny Tapia
(
42
-
0
-
2
)
Weight: 115 lbs
Rodolfo Blanco
(
29
-
11
-
1
)
Weight: 115 lbs
On February 13, 1998, Johnny Tapia stepped into the University Arena in Albuquerque, New Mexico, to defend his IBF and WBO World Super-flyweight titles against Rodolfo Blanco. This bout marked Tapia's thirteenth title defence, and he was heavily favoured to win. With a record of 42-0-2, Tapia was known for his aggressive style and ability to dominate opponents. Blanco, with a record of 29-11-1, was a seasoned fighter but faced a significant challenge in Tapia.
The fight was promoted by Don King Productions and broadcast on Showtime Championship Boxing, drawing a considerable audience interested in witnessing Tapia's continued reign. Referee Tony Rosales oversaw the contest, ensuring a fair and clean fight. Both fighters weighed in at 115 lbs, the super-flyweight limit, indicating that both were well-prepared for the bout. The crowd in Albuquerque largely supported Tapia, given his local roots and impressive undefeated record.
Tapia's performance against Blanco was characteristic of his career up to that point. He utilized his quickness and ring generalship to control the pace of the fight. Despite his experience, Blanco struggled to mount a significant challenge against Tapia's relentless pressure. The fight went the complete twelve rounds, with Tapia winning by unanimous decision. The judges' scores reflected Tapia's dominance, William Gantt 120-107, Harold Gomes 120-107, and Bill Ray 119-108. This victory marked another successful title defence for Tapia, solidifying his position as a top contender in the super-flyweight division.
Following this fight, Tapia would vacate his titles to move up in weight, seeking new challenges in the bantamweight division. This decision was part of his career strategy to become a multi-division champion, a goal he would eventually achieve. The move up in weight would also lead to some of the most notable fights of his career, including his bout against Paulie Ayala later in 1998.