40 years ago

Date: 2nd February 1985

Venue: Coliseo Roberto Clemente, San Juan, Puerto Rico

Title: WBA World Super-bantamweight Title

Promoter: Salinas Sports Promotions

Referee: Larry Rozadilla

Victor Callejas
( 21 - 1 - 0 )
Weight: 121½ lbs

Seung Hoon Lee
( 33 - 4 - 0 )
Weight: 121½ lbs

On February 2, 1985, the boxing community turned its attention to the Coliseo Roberto Clemente in San Juan, Puerto Rico, for a WBA World Super Bantamweight title fight in which Victor Callejas of Puerto Rico defended his title for the first time against South Korea's Seung Hoon Lee.

With a record of 21 wins and only 1 loss, Victor Callejas entered the ring weighing 121½ lbs. He had captured the title nine months prior with a dramatic technical knockout victory over Italy's Loris Stecca. Callejas was known for his sharp boxing skills and formidable power, traits that had carried him swiftly up the ranks in the super bantamweight division.
His challenger, Seung Hoon Lee, also weighed in at 121½ lbs and brought a record of 33 wins, 4 losses, and no draws into the ring. Lee was an experienced fighter who had competed against some of the best in the world, including a notable match for the WBC World Super Flyweight title against Rafael Orono and a challenging fight against Lupe Pintor for the WBC World Bantamweight title.

The bout was tightly contested, with both fighters showcasing their skills and desire to win. Callejas utilized a consistent left jab and controlled the tempo of the fight, managing to keep the aggressive Lee at bay. Lee, known for his durability and tactical approach, attempted to break down Callejas' defences but found it challenging to overcome the champion's composure and strategic execution.

As the fight progressed through the 15-round championship distance, it became evident that Callejas was maintaining an edge. He effectively countered Lee's attacks and implemented a robust defensive strategy that frustrated the challenger. The judges scored the bout 145-141, 147-141, and 146-142 in favour of Victor Callejas, awarding him a unanimous decision victory.

This win solidified Callejas's standing as a champion in the super bantamweight division. He would go on to prove his mettle further by successfully defending his title in a rematch against Stecca in Italy, winning by a sixth-round technical knockout.

Despite the setback, Seung Hoon Lee continued to pursue his championship ambitions and eventually captured the vacant IBF World Super Bantamweight title in January 1987 with a ninth-round technical knockout of Prayurasak Muangsurin.