Marvin Hagler vs Mustafa Hamsho II

On October 19, 1984, at Madison Square Garden in New York, Marvin Hagler defended his undisputed middleweight championship against Mustafa Hamsho in a rematch of their 1981 bout. This fight marked Hagler's ninth defence of his WBA and WBC titles and his fourth defence of the IBF belt.

Hagler, entering with a 59-2-2 record, faced the WBA and WBC's top-ranked contender in Hamsho (38-2-2). The champion earned $1.4 million for the bout, while Hamsho received $300,000.

The fight was brief but action-packed. In the third round, Hagler achieved what no other fighter had managed in Hamsho's nine-year professional career – he knocked him down. Hamsho rose at the count of six but was visibly unsteady. Seizing the opportunity, Hagler unleashed a barrage of punches, culminating in a right hook that floored Hamsho for the second time.

At this point, Hamsho's trainer, Al Certo, intervened, jumping into the ring to stop the fight. Referee Arthur Mercante officially halted the contest at 2:31 of the third round.

This dominant performance by Hagler was a stark contrast to their first encounter in 1981, which lasted 11 rounds. Hamsho's only success in the rematch came from illegal tactics, repeatedly attempting to headbutt Hagler.

The judges' scorecards at the stoppage reflected Hagler's dominance: Harold Lederman had it 20-18 for Hagler, while Vincent Rainone and Eva Shain scored it 19-19.

In his post-fight interview with HBO, Hagler expressed frustration at his perceived lack of recognition for his abilities.

This victory cleared the way for Hagler's highly anticipated superfight against Thomas Hearns, scheduled for April 1985. Tension had been building for months in this bout.