21 years ago

Date: 26th April 2003

Title: IBF World Cruiserweight Title

Promoter: Lou DiBella

Tv: HBO PPV

Vassiliy Jirov
( 31 - 0 - 0 )
Weight: 188 lbs

James Toney
( 65 - 4 - 2 )
Weight: 190 lbs

On April 26, 2003, James Toney and Vassiliy Jirov clashed in a cruiserweight title bout that would go down as one of the most memorable fights in the division's history. The fight, which took place at a small casino in Connecticut and was broadcast on HBO, had all the makings of a classic despite the cruiserweight division's lack of mainstream attention.

James Toney, a former middleweight and super middleweight champion, had successfully conquered his weight issues and entered the ring in exceptional shape. Vassiliy Jirov, the undefeated IBF cruiserweight champion, was at the peak of his career, having never been knocked down or defeated before this bout.

The contrasting styles of the two fighters created a compelling narrative. Toney, a defensive master and counter-punching specialist, represented a throwback to the golden era of boxing. Jirov, on the other hand, was an aggressive, relentless puncher who had stopped five of his six previous title challengers.

From the opening bell, the action was intense and closely contested. Toney showcased his defensive prowess, staying in Jirov's face, confidently rolling with punches, and looking for opportunities to counter. Undeterred by Toney's defensive skills, Jirov maintained a high work rate and landed many punches throughout the fight.

The sheer volume of punches thrown and landed by both fighters made the bout challenging to score. As the final round commenced, Toney and Jirov believed they had done enough to secure the victory. What followed was a round for the ages.

In the early moments of the 12th, Jirov appeared to gain the upper hand, catching Toney as he slipped back across the ring. Sensing an opportunity, Jirov unleashed a barrage of punches, hoping to close the show. However, Toney, drawing from his vast experience and ring savvy, weathered the storm and found a second wind.

With less than 30 seconds remaining in the fight, Toney landed a devastating left hook to Jirov's body, causing the champion to drop his hands. Seizing the moment, Toney unleashed a vicious combination that sent Jirov to the canvas. Although Jirov managed to beat the count, the knockdown sealed Toney's victory in a fight that had been closely contested throughout.

The judges' scorecards reflected the bout's competitive nature, with Toney winning unanimously (117-109, 117-109, 116-110). The 12th-round knockdown, combined with a point deduction against Jirov in the eighth round for low blows, ultimately proved the difference.

Toney's victory over Jirov and subsequent knockout of Evander Holyfield later that year earned him The Ring Magazine's "Fighter of the Year" award for 2003. The Jirov fight, in particular, was the catalyst for this recognition, showcasing Toney's skill, determination, and ability to overcome adversity.

Unfortunately, the effects of the gruelling battle against Toney took a toll on Jirov. In his delayed knockout loss against Michael Moorer, Jirov seemed to be a diminished version of his former self.