Skip to main content

From the archive · June 13, 1986

Julio Cesar Chavez vs Refugio Rojas

WBC World Super-featherweight Title · Madison Square Garden, New York, USA

Julio Cesar Chavez

Record 51-0-0 · 130 lb

Refugio Rojas

Record 31-12-0 · 129½ lb

Julio Cesar Chavez vs Refugio Rojas, Friday, June 13, 1986

The fight

Madison Square Garden in New York was the home for the WBC World Super-featherweight Title fight between Julio Cesar Chavez and Refugio Rojas on Friday, 13th June 1986. This contest was the 5th defense of his title by Chavez, and it was promoted by Don King Productions with Tony Perez serving as the referee. The match was televised on HBO World Championship Boxing.

Julio Cesar Chavez, hailing from Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico, entered the ring with an undefeated record of 51 wins and no losses. Weighing in at 130 lbs, Chavez was fast becoming known as one of the most formidable fighters of his era. Rojas, from Long Beach, California, came in at 129½ lbs with a record of 31 wins and 12 losses.

From the first bell, Chavez, known for his relentless and punishing style, quickly established control of the ring while Rojas, a determined and gritty fighter, demonstrated resilience against the onslaught coming from Chavez.

However, as the rounds progressed, Chavez's dominance became increasingly apparent. His precision and power were on full display, systematically breaking down Rojas's defenses. Rojas, despite his courage and tenacity, struggled to match the pace and ferocity of Chavez.

In the 7th round, Chavez executed a series of well-placed blows that left Rojas reeling. At 2:33 into the round, referee Tony Perez stepped in to stop the fight, declaring Chavez the winner by TKO.

Watch