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HISTORY: On February 17, 1999 at Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, Michigan WBC Super Featherweight champion Floyd Mayweather, Jr. defended his title against Carlos Rios. Mayweather, Jr. cruised to a unanimous 12 round decision win over Rios.
Rios Takes Mayweather The Distance
By Luis Escobar, The Boxing Times, February 17, 1999
Hometown hero "Pretty Boy" Floyd Mayweather thought he was going to be in for a short night but challenger Carlos Rios had other ideas.
The WBC super featherweight king Mayweather retained his title with a commanding unanimious decision but Rios withstood the champion's relentless assault and was still standing after twelve bruising rounds. The WBC's number-five ranked contender Rios tried to turn the bout into a brawl but Mayweather's speed and combinations proved to be the difference.
Mayweather won by an overwhelming margin on all three judges scorecards. Judge Luis Guzman from Argentina scored it 120-110. While Geiasio Perez of Mexico tallied 119-108, and Bob Watson from the US scored it 120-109, all in favor of the champion The BT scorecard also reflected Mayweather's dominance, 120-108.
However, despite the loss Rios proved to be a difficult challenger for Mayweather, who was making his second title defense since winning the crown from Genaro Hernandez. "I'm glad it went 12 rounds so I could show people all over the world that Floyd Mayweather can go the distance," the WBC champion said after the victory. "Carlos Rios was a very tough opponent. He came to fight and that's what I wanted tonight."
Offered here is a scarce, original, souvenir pin for this event.
FULL DESCRIPTION: This is an original, metallic, souvenir pin which names and pictures Floyd Mayweather, Jr. Pin firmly attached to back. Clean front and back. Not dented or scratched. No pitting. 3" diameter.
