22 years ago
Wladimir Klitschko vs Ray Mercer
Date: 29th June 2002
Venue: Trump Taj Mahal, Atlantic City, New Jersey
Title: WBO World Heavyweight Title
Promoter: Cedric Kushner Productions, Dee Lee Promotions & Universum Box-Promotion
Tv: HBO Boxing After Dark & Premiere World
Wladimir Klitschko
(
38
-
1
-
0
)
Weight: 243 lbs
Ray Mercer
(
30
-
4
-
1
)
Weight: 228 lbs
Wladimir Klitschko, defending his WBO World Heavyweight Title for the fourth time, delivered a commanding performance against Ray Mercer at the Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City, New Jersey, securing a TKO victory at 1:08 in the sixth round. This bout, which headlined HBO Boxing After Dark and aired on Premiere World in Germany, was notable for Klitschko's dominance and setting records. Klitschko became the first fighter to stop the seasoned Mercer, marking a significant achievement in his career.
From the opening bell, Klitschko, with a physical advantage and weighing in at 243 pounds, established control with his jab and quickly set the tone for the fight. Mercer, a former opponent of heavyweight icons like Lennox Lewis and Evander Holyfield, found himself on the canvas in the first round after Klitschko landed two potent left hooks. This marked only the second time Mercer had been knocked down, the first being during a bout with Holyfield in 1995.
Klitschko's strategy centred around his powerful jab, which he used significantly, causing swelling around Mercer's eyes early in the fight. The fifth round saw Mercer suffer a cut over his right eye due to a lead hook from Klitschko, with the injury becoming a significant factor as the fight progressed.
Mercer was visibly struggling by the sixth round, unable to mount an effective offence against Klitschko's onslaught. Seizing the opportunity, Klitschko unleashed a barrage of unanswered power punches, prompting referee Randy Neumann to halt the fight, ensuring Klitschko's victory by TKO.
Through this victory, Klitschko not only retained his WBO heavyweight title but also made a strong case for a shot at bigger fights, expressing his desire to take on the likes of Lewis or Holyfield next. He demonstrated his capability and readiness for the top tier of the heavyweight division, both with his physical prowess and tactical approach in the ring.
Despite the defeat and acknowledging Klitschko's superiority in the bout, Mercer's fight was a testament to his durability and the strength of his chin, qualities that have been recognised throughout his career. Mercer's resilience, even at 41, was on full display, although he conceded the victory to Klitschko, indicating a recognition of the Ukrainian's skill and power.
Beyond its immediate outcome, this bout showcased Klitschko's emerging dominance in the heavyweight division. It set the stage for future challenges against the division's elite, marking another step in his storied career.