From the archive · January 19, 2008
Roy Jones Jr vs Felix Trinidad
12 Round Non-title Fight · Madison Square Garden, New York, USA
Record 51-4-0 · 169½ lb
Record 42-2-0 · 170 lb

The fight
On January 19, 2008, at Madison Square Garden in New York City, Roy Jones Jr faced Felix Trinidad in a 12-round non-title bout promoted by Don King Productions. The event was broadcast on HBO Pay-Per-View, with Arthur Mercante Jr officiating as the referee.
Jones, entering the ring at 169½ pounds with a record of 51 wins and 4 losses, showcased his superior speed and defensive skills against Trinidad, who weighed in at 170 pounds and held a record of 42 wins and 2 losses. Throughout the fight, Jones effectively utilized his jab and straight right hands and counter punches, while Trinidad adopted an aggressive approach, aiming to land power shots.
The bout's pivotal moments occurred in the seventh and tenth rounds when Jones delivered precise punches that knocked Trinidad down. Despite Trinidad's resilience and determination to continue, Jones maintained control for the remainder of the fight.
After 12 rounds, the judges awarded Jones a unanimous decision victory with scores of 117-109 and 116-110 (twice). This match marked Trinidad's final professional appearance, concluding his career with a record of 42 wins, 3 losses, and 35 knockouts. Jones improved his record to 52 wins and 4 losses, further solidifying his legacy in the sport.
The event attracted an audience of 12,162 spectators at Madison Square Garden and achieved approximately 500,000 pay-per-view buys, generating significant revenue and demonstrating the enduring appeal of both fighters.
In the aftermath, Jones expressed interest in pursuing further high-profile matches, while Trinidad announced his retirement from boxing. The fight remains a notable encounter between two accomplished champions, reflecting their enduring skills and competitive spirit.