Matthew Saad Muhammad vs Vonzell Johnson

On February 28, 1981, Matthew Saad Muhammad successfully defended his WBC and The Ring light heavyweight titles for the sixth time against Vonzell Johnson at the Bally's Park Place Hotel Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Johnson, the WBC's #8 light heavyweight contender, had renowned trainer Angelo Dundee in his corner for the first time.

The fight began with a significant moment in the first round, as Saad Muhammad was briefly buckled by a quick counter left hook in the waning seconds. However, he managed to recover and continue the bout. In the second round, Johnson drew blood from Saad Muhammad's nose, indicating a competitive and intense start to the fight.

Controversy arose in the sixth round when Johnson slipped. Despite Johnson's protests, the referee incorrectly called a knockdown. This misjudgment did not deter Johnson, who continued to fight with confidence despite Saad Muhammad's hard body punching, which was taking effect.

Johnson developed a nosebleed in the seventh round, further complicating his situation. The physical toll on Johnson increased as he was cut over the left eye early in the tenth round.

The decisive moment came in the eleventh round when an exhausted and rubbery-legged Vonzell Johnson was floored after a series of hard punches from Saad Muhammad. Despite rising and attempting to survive, Johnson was pursued and trapped in a corner by Saad Muhammad. Referee Tony Perez was forced to step in and stop the fight, declaring Saad Muhammad the winner by TKO in the eleventh round.

This victory solidified Saad Muhammad's position as one of the most formidable light heavyweight champions, the other being WBA counterpart Eddie Mustafa Muhammad.