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From the archive · December 13, 2003

Travis Simms vs Alejandro Garcia Hernandez

WBA World Super-welterweight Title · Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City, USA

Travis Simms

Record 22-0-0 · 154 lb

Alejandro Garcia Hernandez

Record 22-0-0 · 154 lb

Travis Simms vs Alejandro Garcia Hernandez, Saturday, December 13, 2003

The fight

On December 13, 2003, the Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey, hosted Don King's ambitious eight-world-title extravaganza. One of those world title fights featured Travis Simms, an undefeated American boxer from Connecticut, facing off against Alejandro García Hernández, a similarly undefeated Mexican fighter. Both fighters entered the bout with a perfect record of 22 wins and no losses, each weighing in at 154 pounds for the WBA World Super-welterweight Title.

The event was broadcast on HBO Pay-Per-View, drawing significant attention due to the undefeated status of both competitors and the high stakes involved. Refereed by Samuel Viruet, the bout was expected to be closely contested, given the impressive resumes of both fighters. However, Travis Simms emerged victorious, securing a knockout in the fifth round. The stoppage came at 1:41 into the round, marking a decisive victory for Simms and handing García his first professional loss. This win earned Simms the WBA title and cemented his position as a player in the super welterweight division.

García had previously won the WBA title by defeating Santiago Samaniego earlier in 2003 and had successfully defended it against Rhoshii Wells. However, Simms' performance demonstrated his ability to adapt and capitalize on opportunities, which ultimately led to García's downfall. Following this win, Simms would go on to face challenges in unifying the title, including a dispute with the WBA over a potential bout against Shane Mosley, who held the super champion status at the time.