34 years ago

Date: 22nd December 1989

Title: WBO World Light-heavyweight Title

Tv: ESPN

Michael Moorer
( 17 - 0 - 0 )
Weight: 175 lbs

Mike Sedillo
( 22 - 6 - 0 )
Weight: 175 lbs

Fans at The Palace in Auburn Hills, Michigan, on December 22, 1989, saw Michael Moorer successfully defend his World Boxing Organization Light Heavyweight Title for the sixth time against Mike Sedillo with a TKO victory in the sixth round. 

Both fighters entered the ring at an even 175 pounds, but Moorer emerged victorious, continuing his impressive streak of title defences.

Mike Sedillo, hailing from Fontana, California, brought a commendable track record to the fight, having secured the IBF USBA Light Heavyweight title in his previous bout against Uriah Grant and boasting a victory over former world title challenger Jim MacDonald. Despite a unanimous decision loss to future world champion Virgil Hill in 1986, Sedillo always came to fight.

The bout commenced with Sedillo meeting Moorer at the ring centre, demonstrating his determination to avoid being easily overpowered. However, while fighting from a southpaw stance, Moorer quickly established his dominance, utilising a powerful jab and delivering precise, impactful punches.

By the third round, Sedillo's pace began to wane under the relentless assault of Moorer's body shots, signalling the beginning of the challenger's struggle to keep up.

In the pivotal sixth round, Sedillo attempted to regain momentum with a solid right hand, but Moorer's response was swift and decisive. A potent left hook from Moorer sent Sedillo reeling back to the ropes, where Moorer unleashed a barrage of punches that ultimately led to Sedillo's collapse beneath the ropes. Referee Sam Williams had no choice but to halt the contest at 2:07 of the round, awarding Moorer the TKO victory.