60 years ago

Date: 10th April 1964

Title: WBC & WBA World Light-heavyweight Titles

Promoter: Bonny Geigerman

Tv: ABC Tv

Willie Pastrano
( 60 - 12 - 8 )
Weight: 174¾ lbs

Gregorio Peralta
( 39 - 3 - 4 )
Weight: 174¾ lbs

In the annals of boxing history, certain nights stand out not just for the technique and skill displayed within the squared circle but for the sheer drama and storyline that unfolds. One such night was April 10, 1964, at the Municipal Auditorium in New Orleans, Louisiana. The stage was set for the first defence of the WBC & WBA World Light-heavyweight Titles by none other than Willie Pastrano, New Orleans' own son.

The atmosphere was electric. The crowd, a mix of local supporters and boxing aficionados, gathered in anticipation to watch Pastrano, with a record of 60-12-8, defend his titles against the formidable Gregorio Peralta from Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina, who entered the ring with an impressive 69-8-0 record. Both fighters weighed in at 174¾ lbs.

The bout, promoted by Bonny Geigerman, promised to be a classic encounter between two top-tier fighters in their prime. And for 15 rounds, it lived up to every ounce of that promise.

From the opening bell, it was evident that both fighters were well-prepared. Pastrano, known for his agility and finesse, danced around the ring, displaying the kind of footwork that had made him a household name in New Orleans. Peralta, on the other hand, was no slouch. His reputation as a hard-hitting Argentinian was well-earned, and he sought to corner Pastrano and deliver his powerful combinations.

As the rounds progressed, the tension in the auditorium was palpable. Every punch thrown and every evasive manoeuvre executed was met with gasps, cheers, and the occasional jeer. The bout seemed evenly matched, with both fighters having their moments of dominance.

But as with all great boxing stories, there was a turning point. Peralta, ever the aggressor, had been targeting Pastrano's body, trying to slow down the nimble-footed champion. However, an inadvertent clash of heads in the later rounds resulted in a nasty gash above Peralta's right eye. The cut, deep and bleeding profusely, changed the complexion of the fight.

Referee Pete Giarusso closely monitored Peralta's condition as the Argentinian's corner worked frantically between rounds to stem the bleeding. However it was clear that the cut was affecting Peralta's vision and performance.

The drama reached its zenith in the 15th round. With Pastrano sensing an opportunity and Peralta battling not just his opponent but also his own impaired vision, the decision was made. Peralta's corner, prioritising the safety of their fighter, signalled for the bout to be stopped. Pastrano was declared the winner, retaining his WBC & WBA World Light-heavyweight Titles on a 15th-round corner retirement.

The crowd erupted in jubilation for their hometown hero, but there was also a deep respect for Peralta, who had shown incredible heart and determination.

After the fight, Willie Pastrano said, "I've always dreamed of winning a championship fight in New Orleans, and now I've done it."

Gregorio Peralta: "I could have continued. I was getting stronger. The cut wasn't bothering me too much. It's just bad luck."