November 10th: Historic Boxing Matches That Made History
November 10th stands out as a significant date in boxing history, showcasing iconic fights that shaped the sport. Numerous legendary boxers have graced the ring on this day, leaving their mark with unforgettable performances and championship victories.
Significant Boxing Matches on November 10th
The War at Caesars Palace: Hagler vs. Durán (1983)
On November 10, 1983, the middleweight division witnessed a pivotal showdown at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. Marvin Hagler, the undisputed champion, faced Roberto Durán, aiming for his fourth world title across different weight classes. This encounter lasted a grueling fifteen rounds, featuring a battle of tactics and endurance.
Durán, moving up in weight, showcased his boxing skills and even led on two scorecards after 13 rounds. However, Hagler’s tenacity shone through in the final rounds, securing a unanimous decision victory with scores of 144–142, 144–143, and 146–145. This fight marked Hagler’s first time going the distance as champion and highlighted Durán’s resilience.
A Statement Win: Mayweather vs. Chávez (2001)
Fast forward to November 10, 2001, when Floyd Mayweather Jr. defended his WBC super-featherweight title against Jesús Chávez at the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium in San Francisco. With a record of 35–1, Chávez brought relentless pressure to the fight.
Mayweather displayed his defensive skills and precise counterpunching. By the ninth round, Chávez’s corner called it quits, marking another important step in Mayweather’s career before he achieved global fame as “Money.”
Passing the Torch: Cotto vs. Mosley (2007)
On November 10, 2007, Madison Square Garden hosted a significant bout between Miguel Cotto and Shane Mosley. Cotto, the WBA welterweight champion, faced the seasoned fighter in a match expected to be an instant classic.
The fight lived up to its hype, with Cotto exhibiting a blend of youthful aggression and technical prowess. After twelve intense rounds, the scorecards declared Cotto the winner with scores of 115–113, 116–113, and 115–113. This victory not only solidified Cotto’s status but also symbolized a transfer of power from the veteran Mosley to a new generation of champions.
A Knockout Statement: Usyk vs. Bellew (2018)
November 10, 2018, saw Oleksandr Usyk, the undisputed cruiserweight champion, face Tony Bellew in Manchester, England. Usyk delivered a masterful performance, ultimately knocking out Bellew in the eighth round. This fight marked Usyk’s final appearance at cruiserweight before transitioning to heavyweight, where he would eventually conquer Anthony Joshua.
Why November 10th Matters in Boxing
From the legendary venues of Las Vegas and Madison Square Garden to the energetic arena in Manchester, November 10 has become synonymous with boxing excellence. This exceptional day consistently showcases heart, skill, and the pursuit of legacy.
Many iconic fighters, like Hagler, Durán, Mayweather, Mosley, and Usyk, have had their names etched in boxing history on November 10th. Each of these champions has at some point been regarded as a Pound-for-Pound king, reflecting the intense competition and talent within the sport. These legendary matches ensure that the date remains a benchmark for future bouts in boxing history.