42 years ago

Date: 30th January 1982

Venue: Caesars Palace, Las Vegas, Nevada

Title: WBC World Super-welterweight Title

Promoter: Don King

Tv: HBO

Wilfred Benitez
( 43 - 1 - 1 )
Weight: 152¼ lbs

Roberto Duran
( 74 - 2 - 0 )
Weight: 152½ lbs

On Saturday 30th January 1982 in Las Vegas, fans witnessed a true clash of the titans as two legendary boxers, Wilfred Benitez and Roberto Duran, squared off for the WBC World Super Welterweight Title. Benitez, the current champion from San Juan, Puerto Rico, was defending his title for the second time, while Duran, hailing from Panama City, was looking to add another world title to his impressive record of 74-2-0.

Despite Duran's impressive record, Benitez entered the fight as the favorite, and he did not disappoint. In a masterclass display of defensive prowess and sharpshooting, Benitez frustrated Duran at every turn. While Duran had not been himself since his infamous "No Mas" defeat to Sugar Ray Leonard, he still managed to give Benitez a run for his money, but ultimately fell short in a 15-round unanimous decision.

The official scores were 145-141, 144-141, and 143-142, all in favor of Benitez. While Duran had his moments, it was clear that Benitez was the better fighter that night, and he walked away with his title intact. The fight was a testament to Benitez's skill and showed why he was considered one of the best fighters of his time.