31 years ago

Date: 3rd February 1993

Title: WBC World Featherweight Title

Promoter: Queensberry Promotions

Tv: ITV - The Big Fight Live

Paul Hodkinson
( 21 - 1 - 1 )
Weight: 125 3/4 lbs

Ricardo Cepeda
( 23 - 2 - 1 )
Weight: 125 3/4 lbs

WBC featherweight champion Paul Hodkinson made the third defence of his title against Puerto Rico's Ricardo Cepeda (23-2-1) at Olympia in Kensington, a suburb of London.

Cepeda, like Hodkinson, had faced Mexican Marcos Villasana, losing on a controversial decision in Marbella, Spain, so he was expected to give the champion a tough test. In the ring, Cepeda looked bigger and stronger than Hodkinson, so the champion never allowed himself to be pushed back by the challenger, always pushing forward, landing the better punches.

In the 2nd round, Cepeda touched down after a combination from Hodkinson, referee Franz Marti giving him an eight count. Cepeda saw out the rest of the round without difficulty.

The third round saw the champion up the pressure a little more and although Cepeda stayed with him, it was clear to see that Hodkinson was slowly taking over.

Hodkinson attacked the challenger from the opening bell of the fourth round, landing a powerful left hook that took the last fight out of the brave Puerto Rican, and moments later referee Marti jumped in just as Cepeda's cornerman leapt onto the ring apron to signal their surrender.

The time of the stoppage was 0:37 of the 4th round.