Anatoly Alexandrov vs Acelino Freitas

On August 7, 1999, at La Palestre in Le Cannet, France, Brazil's undefeated Acelino Freitas (20-0) challenged WBO Super Featherweight champion Anatoly Alexandrov (35-4) in what became one of the most devastating title changes in the division's history.

Alexandrov entered with solid credentials, having won the vacant title from Julien Lorcy in Paris on May 16, 1998. His championship run included a successful defence against unbeaten Arnulfo Castillo (29-0-2) via 8th-round TKO, and he had maintained activity with a European title defence against Pedro Ferradas. Before winning the WBO belt, Alexandrov had built his reputation with five European title defences and a competitive split decision loss to WBC champion Genaro Hernandez.

The fight began conventionally, with both men establishing their jabs. However, the tactical opening dissolved quickly when Freitas backed Alexandrov to the ropes, landing a powerful right hand that forced the champion into the ropes. Though referee Mike Ortega didn't issue a count for this first incident, Freitas immediately followed with another right hand and a devastating left hook that prompted an eight count.

Upon resumption, Freitas launched a final assault. A right hand, right uppercut, and finishing straight right landed as Alexandrov retreated, rendering the champion unconscious at 1:41 of the opening round. The severity of the knockout required medical attention, with Alexandrov remaining unconscious for five minutes before being removed from the ring on a stretcher.

This Canal+ televised event marked Freitas's first world title victory and the end of Alexandrov's brief championship tenure. Freitas's victory's brutal efficiency would become a harbinger of his subsequent reign as champion.