30 years ago

Date: 8th January 1994

Venue: Friar Tuck Inn, Catskill, New York

Title: WBA World Bantamweight Title

Promoter: Garden State Boxing

Junior Jones
( 31 - 0 - 0 )
Weight: 118 lbs

Elvis Alvarez
( 31 - 7 - 3 )
Weight: 118 lbs

On January 8, 1994, the Friar Tuck Inn in Catskill, New York, witnessed a boxing match of significant importance in the bantamweight division. Junior "Poison" Jones, a rising star in the boxing world, faced off against the seasoned Colombian fighter, Elvis Alvarez, for the WBA World Bantamweight title. This bout not only showcased the skill and determination of both fighters but also played a pivotal role in the trajectories of their respective careers.

The Build-Up to the Bout

Junior Jones, an American boxer known for his agility and sharp punching, entered the ring with a reputation as a formidable bantamweight champion. His opponent, Elvis Alvarez, hailed from Medellin, Colombia, and was known for his resilience and experience in the ring. Alvarez's journey to this title fight was marked by significant achievements, including winning the Colombian Super Flyweight and Bantamweight titles, the vacant WBO World Flyweight title against Miguel Mercedes in 1989, and the WBA Flyweight title in 1991.

The Fight: A Unanimous Decision

The fight itself was a tactical and strategic display from both boxers. Junior Jones, with his height and reach advantage, managed to control the pace of the fight, effectively using his jab to keep Alvarez at bay. Alvarez, known for his tenacity, tried to close the distance and land significant punches but struggled to penetrate Jones's defense.

Over the course of twelve rounds, Jones demonstrated boxing skills. He efficiently outboxed Alvarez, showcasing his ability to combine defensive manoeuvres with sharp, accurate counterpunches. Alvarez, despite his best efforts, could not find an answer to Jones's style, which was both defensive and offensively efficient.

The judges, Guy Jutras, Oscar Perez Carbonell, and Cesar Ramos, scored the fight overwhelmingly in favor of Junior Jones: 120-108, 120-108, and 119-109, respectively. This unanimous decision was a testament to Jones's dominance throughout the match. The referee, Wayne Kelly, oversaw the proceedings.

The Aftermath and Legacy

This victory for Junior Jones was a significant milestone in his career, cementing his status as a top bantamweight. It was a display of his potential to dominate in the boxing world and a stepping stone to greater challenges and successes.

For Elvis Alvarez, this fight was one of the final chapters in his storied career. Born and bred in the challenging environment of Medellin, Colombia, Alvarez's journey in boxing was marked by his resilience and ability to overcome adversity. His career, which ended with a record of 31-8-3, was a narrative of perseverance and dedication to the sport.

Tragically, Alvarez's life came to a premature end when he was shot to death on July 16, 1995, in Medellín. His death was not only a loss to the boxing community but also a stark reminder of the harsh realities outside the ring that many boxers face.