18 years ago
Tomasz Adamek vs Chad Dawson
Date: 3rd February 2007
Venue: Silver Spurs Arena, Kissimmee, FloridaTitle: WBC World Light-heavyweight Title
Promoter: Don King Productions & Gary Shaw Productions
Referee: Jorge Alonso
Tv: Showtime Championship Boxing
Tomasz Adamek
(
31
-
0
-
0
)
Weight: 174 lbs
Chad Dawson
(
22
-
0
-
0
)
Weight: 175 lbs
On the night of February 3, 2007, a significant bout unfolded at the Silver Spurs Arena in Kissimmee, Florida, under the promotional banners of Don King Productions and Gary Shaw Productions. The event, telecast on Showtime, featured a WBC World Light-heavyweight Title battle. The defending WBC champion Tomasz Adamek, with an undefeated record of 31-0, weighed in at 174 lbs; faced off against the challenger, Chad Dawson, who also entered the ring undefeated at 22-0 and weighed in slightly heavier at 175 lbs.
The match was poised as a clash of titans, with both fighters putting their unbeaten records on the line. Early in the bout, Chad Dawson's tactical prowess began to overshadow Adamek's efforts. Dawson's quick movements and sharper punches allowed him to control the pace and flow of the fight, landing significant blows that seemed to challenge Adamek's hold over the bout.
In the seventh round, Dawson landed a potent left to the body, sending Adamek to the canvas. Although it was initially counted as a knockdown, replays later showed Adamek tripped over Dawson's foot following the punch. This incident added a layer of controversy but also highlighted the intense physicality of the matchup.
The resilience of both fighters was further tested as Adamek managed to land a straight right hand in the tenth round, knocking Dawson down. This knockdown marked a momentary shift in momentum as Adamek tried to capitalize on this advantage. Despite this effort, Dawson quickly regained his composure, demonstrating the skill and heart that have defined his career. He survived the onslaught, maintaining his strategic approach, which consistently troubled Adamek throughout the fight.
By the end of the tenth round, Showtime's ringside analyst Al Bernstein and press row had Dawson leading significantly on the scorecards. The judges' scores at the conclusion of the fight reflected this as well, with Peter Trematerra scoring it 118-108, Anek Hongtongkam 116-110, and Alejandro Rochin 109-117, all in favour of Dawson, who emerged victorious by unanimous decision.
This win secured Dawson the WBC light-heavyweight world title. It marked a pivotal moment in his career, showcasing his ability to overcome adversity and perform under pressure.