48 years ago
Roberto Duran vs Vilomar Fernandez
Date: 29th January 1977
Venue: Fontainbleau Hotel, Miami Beach, FloridaTitle: WBA World Lightweight Title
Promoter: Don King
Referee: Servio Tulio Lay
Tv: CBS Sports
Roberto Duran
(
58
-
1
-
0
)
Weight: 133¾ lbs
Vilomar Fernandez
(
19
-
5
-
1
)
Weight: 132½ lbs
On January 29, 1977, at Miami Beach's Fontainbleau Hotel, Roberto Duran defended his WBA World Lightweight Title against Vilomar Fernandez. With a record of 58-1-0, Duran weighed in at 133¾ pounds, while Fernandez, standing at 19-5-1, came in at 132½ pounds. The bout, promoted by Don King and broadcast nationally on CBS Sports, took place before an intimate audience of approximately 1,200 spectators, with ticket prices ranging from $10 to $40.
Duran, known as "Manos de Piedra" or "Hands of Stone," was making his 10th title defence since seizing the lightweight crown in 1972. From the outset, he applied relentless pressure, focusing his attack on Fernandez's body. Fernandez, a 23-year-old part-time cab driver from the Bronx, demonstrated resilience and agility, occasionally landing crisp left and right punches. Notably, he managed to win the sixth round on some scorecards, delivering a flurry of effective shots midway through the round.
Despite these moments, Duran's persistent body assault gradually wore Fernandez down. In the 13th round, Duran delivered a decisive combination—a right followed by a left to the body—that sent Fernandez to the canvas. The referee, Servio Tulio Lay, counted him out at 2:10 of the round, marking only the second time Fernandez had been knocked down in his career.
This victory not only marked Duran's 10th consecutive knockout but also solidified his status as one of the premier lightweights of his era. Financially, Duran earned a purse of $60,000 for the fight, while Fernandez received $20,000. The event's setting was unique, with the ring constructed on the hotel's indoor tennis court, providing an exclusive atmosphere for those in attendance.
Roberto Duran vs Vilomar Fernandez on YouTube
