Nino Benvenuti vs Emile Griffith II

On September 29, 1967, Emile Griffith reclaimed the middleweight crown from Nino Benvenuti at Shea Stadium in New York, winning by a close majority decision. Griffith, weighing 154 pounds, was slightly lighter than the defending champion Benvenuti, who weighed 160 pounds. 

The fight, which stretched the full 15 rounds, saw Griffith push the pace, relying on his technical skills and trademark stamina. 

Despite Benvenuti's resilient performance, Griffith's consistency, particularly his aggressive final rounds, swayed two judges—Joe Eppy and Johnny Dran—who scored it 9-5 for Griffith. Referee Tommy Walsh had the fight level at 7-7 under New York's round-based scoring system, but controversy arose from his use of supplemental points, as his final tally also stood tied at 7-7, even after a 14th-round knockdown by Griffith, which many felt should have decisively tipped the balance in the American's favour. 

The Associated Press viewed it clearly for Griffith, scoring the bout 10-4-1 in his favour. 

The contest drew considerable attention and was a financial success. Benvenuti's purse was estimated at $100,000 from a 40% share of receipts, while Griffith took home around $50,000. 

The bout marked Benvenuti's first defence of the WBA and WBC middleweight titles. Griffith reclaimed both belts, setting the stage for their next showdown.