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From the archive · February 3, 1990

Michael Moorer vs Marcellus Allen

WBO World Light-heavyweight Title · Atlantic City Convention Hall, Atlantic City, New Jersey

Michael Moorer

Record 18-0-0 · 175 lb

Marcellus Allen

Record 12-0-0 · 175 lb

Michael Moorer vs Marcellus Allen, Saturday, February 3, 1990

The fight

The event at Convention Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey, on February 3, 1990, was not just another night of boxing; it was a triple-header featuring some of the most notable names in the sport, each contesting a significant title defence that attracted fans from across the globe. Among the high-stakes bouts was Michael Moorer's successful WBO World Light Heavyweight Title defence against Marcellus Allen. This match ended with Allen unable to answer the bell for the tenth round, granting Moorer a victory by retirement at 3:00 of the ninth round.


Also showcased was Pernell Whitaker defending his WBC and IBF World Lightweight Titles against Freddie Pendleton, a display of Whitaker's signature defensive prowess and technical skill. 

Another highlight was Vinny Pazienza taking on Hector Camacho for the WBO World Super-Lightweight Title, a bout filled with the intense rivalry and competitive spirit characteristic of both fighters' careers.


The entire triple-header from Convention Hall provided a memorable spectacle for boxing fans.

 Moorer's victory over Allen further cemented his dominance in the light heavyweight division, while Whitaker and Pazienza's title defences added to their legacies as some of the most entertaining and skilful boxers of their era.


Sadly, boxing suffered the tragic death of Marcellus Allen a year later, when he was shot by his estranged girlfriend and died later in hospital.