45 years ago
Lupe Pintor vs Alberto Sandoval
Date: 9th February 1980
Venue: Olympic Auditorium, Los Angeles, CaliforniaTitle: WBC World Bantamweight Title
Promoter: Olympic Boxing - Aileen Eaton
Referee: Carlos Padilla
Tv: ABC Sports
Lupe Pintor
(
41
-
5
-
0
)
Weight: 116 lbs
Alberto Sandoval
(
32
-
3
-
0
)
Weight: 117½ lbs
On February 9, 1980, Lupe Pintor successfully defended his WBC World Bantamweight Title against Alberto Sandoval at the Olympic Auditorium in Los Angeles. Pintor, who earned $100,000 for the fight, dominated the bout, using his powerful hooks to control the action throughout. Sandoval, the WBC's No. 10 contender, managed to impress only in the first round, where he effectively used his jab and footwork to evade Pintor's attacks. However, this early success was short-lived, as Pintor's relentless pressure and precise hooking took its toll on the challenger.
The fight ended in the 12th round when Pintor unleashed a flurry of punches that left Sandoval staggering. Referee Carlos Padilla intervened, stopping the fight to prevent further damage. The judges' scores reflected Pintor's dominance, with Rudy Ortega and Abraham Chavarria both scoring the fight 110-98 and 110-102 in favour of Pintor, respectively, while Padilla had it 109-103. Sandoval, who received $25,000 for his efforts, was unable to sustain his early momentum and ultimately succumbed to Pintor's superior power and technique.
This victory marked Pintor's first title defence since winning the WBC bantamweight title from Carlos Zárate Serna in June 1979.
Pintor began boxing professionally in 1974 and went on to become a two-time world champion, winning titles in both the bantamweight and super bantamweight divisions.
Pintor vs Sandoval was promoted by Olympic Boxing under Aileen Eaton. Jimmy Lennon Sr. served as the ring announcer. The event was broadcast on ABC Sports.
Lupe Pintor vs Alberto Sandoval on YouTube
