From the archive · March 10, 2001
Shane Mosley vs Shannan Taylor
WBC World Welterweight Title · Caesars Palace, Las Vegas, USA
Record 36-0-0 · 147 lb
Record 28-0-1 · 147 lb

The fight
On Saturday, 10th March 2001, WBC World Welterweight champion "Sugar" Shane Mosley defended his title at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. The event, promoted by Cedric Kushner Productions and America Presents, was an HBO World Championship Boxing telecast. Mosley, an undefeated American fighter, was defending his title for the second time. Mosley's record was an impressive 35-0-0, while his Australian challenger, Shannon Taylor, had a respectable 35-2-0 record.
The fight started aggressively, with Mosley dominating from the outset. Mosley and Taylor were equally matched in terms of weight, with both fighters weighing in at 147 pounds. However, Mosley's superior speed, precision, and power allowed him to quickly establish control of the match. In the first round, Mosley's relentless assault resulted in Taylor hitting the canvas, a clear indication of the difficult challenge that lay ahead for the Australian.
Taylor, hailing from Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia, attempted to regroup and rally, but Mosley's relentless pressure did not let up. Throughout the fight, Mosley demonstrated an exceptional level of technical skill, outmanoeuvring Taylor and landing a series of devastating blows. As the rounds progressed, it became increasingly evident that Taylor was struggling to keep up with Mosley's ferocious pace and powerful punches.
Referee Vic Drakulich kept a watchful eye on the action, ensuring the safety and fair play of both fighters. Despite Taylor's determination and heart, Mosley's superior boxing abilities continued to take their toll on the challenger. By the end of the fourth round, Taylor appeared to be in significant trouble, his chances of a comeback diminishing with every blow landed by Mosley.
Entering the fifth round, Mosley's dominance remained unchallenged. Taylor's corner, concerned for their fighter's well-being, made the decision to stop the fight at the end of the round. Consequently, Shane Mosley emerged victorious, retaining his WBC World Welterweight Title with a win by RTD (Referee Technical Decision) at 3:00 of the fifth round.