21 years ago
Luis Alberto Perez vs Felix Machado II
Date: 13th December 2003
Venue: Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City, New Jersey
Title: IBF World Super-flyweight Title
Promoter: Don King
Referee: Wayne Hedgpeth
Tv: HBO PPV
Luis Alberto Perez
(
21
-
1
-
0
)
Weight: 114 lbs
Felix Machado
(
23
-
4
-
1
)
Weight: 115 lbs
On December 13, 2003, Luis Alberto Pérez and Félix Machado faced off for the second time at the Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey, in a highly anticipated rematch for the IBF World Super-flyweight Title. This bout was part of a stacked card promoted by Don King and broadcast on HBO PPV. Pérez, a Nicaraguan boxer, entered the fight with a record of 21-1-0, while Machado, from Venezuela, had a record of 23-4-1. Pérez weighed in at 114 lbs, slightly under the limit, while Machado tipped the scales at 115 lbs.
The first encounter between these two fighters had taken place earlier in the year, on January 4, 2003, at the D.C. Armory in Washington, D.C. Pérez won a split decision in that bout, claiming the IBF super flyweight title from Machado. The fight was notable for its intensity and competitiveness, with many considering it a candidate for fight of the year. Pérez's victory marked a significant upset, as Machado had been the reigning champion. The rematch was expected to be just as thrilling, given the closely contested nature of their initial meeting.
The rematch was part of an eight-world championship boxing extravaganza promoted by Don King and broadcast on HBO PPV. The card included notable bouts such as Bernard Hopkins vs. Williams Joppy for the undisputed middleweight title and Ricardo Mayorga vs. Cory Spinks for the unified welterweight title. Perez vs Machado II was anticipated to be just as competitive. However, Pérez dominated the second fight, winning by unanimous decision. The judges' scores were 111-117 for Debra Barnes, 109-119 for Kason Cheeks, and 113-115 for Larry Layton, all in favour of Pérez.