41 years ago

Date: 3rd December 1982

Title: WBC World Super Welterweight Title

Promoter: Don King

Tv: HBO

Wilfred Benitez
( 44 - 1 - 1 )
Weight: 152 lbs

Thomas Hearns
( 35 - 1 - 0 )
Weight: 153 3/4 lbs

The highly anticipated WBC World Super-welterweight Title fight between Wilfred Benitez and Thomas Hearns took place on December 3rd, 1982 at the Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. The bout was promoted by the legendary promoter Don King and was refereed by Octavio Meyran.

Going into the fight, Wilfred Benitez was the defending champion with a record of 44-1-0, while Thomas Hearns had a record of 35-1-0. Both fighters weighed in at 152lbs and 153¾lbs, respectively, and each earned $1.25 million for the bout. The attendance was 12,000, as fans flocked to see these two champions face off.

The fight was a highly competitive battle, with Hearns and Benitez trading blows throughout the 15 rounds. In the fourth round, Hearns had a point deducted for pulling Benitez's head down. In the fifth round, Benitez suffered a knockdown, which was the result of a powerful right hand that caught him on the chin.

In the ninth round, there was some controversy when a television replay showed that Benitez scored what appeared to be a phantom knockdown. Hearns stumbled and fell after Benitez stepped on his foot, and the referee ruled it a knockdown. Despite these moments of drama, the fight was ultimately decided by a 15 round majority decision in favor of Thomas Hearns.

Overall, the Wilfred Benitez vs Thomas Hearns fight was a highly anticipated and memorable bout that showcased the skills and power of two legendary fighters. The highly competitive battle, combined with the controversy in the ninth round, made this fight a classic and a must-see for boxing fans. The result solidified Thomas Hearns' position as one of the greatest fighters of his era, and cemented his place in boxing history.

Scores: Tony Castellano 144-139 | Lou Filippo 142-142 | Dick Young 146-137