Date: 28th February 2009
Venue: Toyota Center, Houston, Texas
Title: WBA, WBO & IBO World Lightweight Titles
Promoter: Golden Boy Promotions
Tv: HBO World Championship Boxing
Juan Manuel Marquez
(
49
-
4
-
1
)
Weight: 134¼ lbs
Juan Diaz
(
34
-
1
-
0
)
Weight: 134½ lbs
Juan Manuel Marquez and Juan Diaz went toe-to-toe in the highly-anticipated WBA, WBO, and IBO world lightweight title fight at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas on Saturday 28th February 2009. The fight had boxing fans on the edge of their seats, with both fighters displaying remarkable skill and tenacity throughout the match. Ultimately, Marquez emerged victorious by a 9th-round TKO, solidifying his position as one of the best lightweight boxers in the world at that time.
The fight was closely contested from the opening bell, with both fighters exchanging fierce blows and showcasing their remarkable technical abilities. Diaz, the reigning IBO lightweight champion, was quick on his feet and displayed excellent hand speed, but Marquez could weather the storm and counter with devastating effect. Marquez's pinpoint accuracy and calculated aggression proved to be the difference maker in the early rounds, allowing him to gain the upper hand on the judges' scorecards.
Despite Diaz's valiant efforts to turn the tide, Marquez's experience and skill eventually proved too much for the younger fighter. In the 9th round, Marquez landed a devastating right hand that sent Diaz crashing to the canvas. Although Diaz was able to get back to his feet, Marquez continued to pummel him with a barrage of punches, prompting referee Rafael Ramos to stop the fight and award Marquez the TKO victory.