27 years ago

Date: 9th November 1996

Title: WBO World Featherweight Title

Promoter: Sports Network

Tv: Sky Sports

Naseem Hamed
( 23 - 0 - 0 )
Weight: 125¾ lbs

Remigio Daniel Molina
( 27 - 0 - 0 )
Weight: 125¼ lbs

On Saturday, November 9th, 1996, at the Nynex Arena in Manchester, England, the highly anticipated matchup took place between undefeated fighters Naseem Hamed (23-0-0) of Sheffield, England, and Remigio Daniel Molina (27-0-0) from Corrientes, Argentina. Promoted by Queensberry Promotions, the bout was set for 12 rounds with the WBO World Featherweight Title on the line. Hamed, the defending champion, weighed in at 125¾ lbs, while Molina weighed in slightly lighter at 125¼ lbs.

From the outset of the match, Hamed demonstrated his superior speed and power, pressuring Molina and displaying his unorthodox style. The first round saw both fighters feeling each other out, with Hamed landing a few notable punches that seemed to rattle Molina early on. However, the Argentine contender managed to survive the initial onslaught and made it to the end of the round.

In the second round, Hamed's relentless attack continued. Halfway through the round, Hamed landed a devastating uppercut followed by a straight left hand that sent Molina to the canvas. Although Molina managed to beat the count and get back on his feet, he was visibly shaken and struggling to maintain his composure.

Hamed, sensing his opponent's vulnerability, continued his offensive. He soon landed another powerful uppercut that sent Molina reeling into the ropes. At this point, referee Roberto Ramirez Sr. deemed that Molina was no longer able to continue, and he called a stop to the contest at 2:32 of the second round, declaring Hamed the winner by technical knockout (TKO).