Sugar Ray Robinson vs Paul Pender

Boston Garden on Friday, 22nd January 1960, played host as Paul Pender, the local hero, took on Sugar Ray Robinson, the champion with a record of 143-6-2. This was Robinson's first title defense in almost two years after being stripped of his title by the National Boxing Association (NBA) for inactivity. Despite this setback, Robinson was still recognized as champion by both the New York and the European Commissions. With Robinson being a 5-1 favorite, the crowd of 10,608 spectators who had paid a total of $85,010 were hoping for their man to produce an upset.

Pender, who hailed from nearby Brookline, Massachusetts, had a record of 35-5-2 and a well-known history of hand damage. This physical limitation had honed his defensive boxing skills. During the match against Robinson, Pender was able to adeptly slip inside Robinson's attacks, absorbing his opponent's punches with his gloves and forearms and delivering his own counterpunches. This tactic proved effective at times.

The Associated Press scored the fight 145-141 in the champion's favor,  and not for Pender's tactic of tying up Robinson whenever he got in punching range. The fight was gruelling, with Pender doggedly defending and countering against the more aggressive Robinson.

Pender was controlling the fight's pace and using his spoiling tactics to full advantage. While Robinson tried to mount an offense, he mostly found himself caught in Pender's clinch. This recurring scenario, combined with Pender's constant rabbit punching, seemed to frustrate the seasoned champion, who was unable to land many clean shots. Referee Joe Zapustas allowed Pender's rabbit punches, adding another layer of controversy to the bout.

In a surprising turn of events, Pender won the match by a 15-round split decision, with the judges scoring the match 142-146, 148-142, and 147-138. Despite Robinson pressing the fight, Pender's tactical approach secured his victory, upsetting the favored champion. It wasn't the spectacle many spectators might have hoped for, but Pender's methodical strategy won him the match and upset the odds.