On This Day in Boxing… February 24

1982: Carlos “Sugar” De León Solidifies His Cruiserweight Dominance

Puerto Rican star Carlos De León cemented his status as the first great monarch of the cruiserweight division by knocking out American Marvin Camel in seven rounds. In this highly anticipated rematch held at the Showboat Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, De León—who had originally snatched the title from Camel in 1980—displayed absolute technical and physical superiority, punishing the former champion until forcing the stoppage. This victory was instrumental in establishing the relevance of the cruiserweight division during the 1980s under the WBC umbrella.

1989: Roberto “Manos de Piedra” Durán Captures His Fourth Crown

In one of the most memorable nights in boxing history, Panamanian legend Roberto Durán defied both logic and time by defeating American Iran Barkley via split decision in Atlantic City. Barkley was coming off a knockout win over Thomas Hearns and was significantly larger and stronger, yet Durán’s defensive mastery, counterpunching, and indomable heart captivated the world. With this triumph, “El Cholo” captured the WBC World Middleweight Title, becoming only the third boxer in history to win titles in four different weight classes. The bout was rightfully named “Fight of the Year” by The Ring magazine.

1996: Saman Sorjaturong Dominates in Bangkok

Thailand’s Saman Sorjaturong successfully defended his WBC Light Flyweight crowns by stopping the courageous Mexican challenger Antonio “El Caballero” Pérez in just four rounds. Fighting before his home crowd in Bangkok, Sorjaturong showcased his trademark power, overwhelming the Mexican with precise combinations from the opening bell. This defense was a key part of Saman’s dominant reign, having become a national hero following his historic upset victory over Humberto “Chiquita” González a year prior.

2001: A Masterclass by Roy Jones Jr. in Tampa

Widely considered the best pound-for-pound fighter on the planet at the time, Roy Jones Jr. defended his unified light heavyweight titles, including the WBC green and gold belt, by defeating Derrick Harmon in Tampa, Florida. Jones Jr. utilized his electric speed and superhuman reflexes to dominate every minute of the contest. After ten rounds of one-sided punishment, Harmon’s corner decided their fighter had seen enough. It was another masterful exhibition of Jones’ unique style, proving he was in a league of his own at 175 pounds.