My toughest fight was with Mexican Mario Martinez – Azumah Nelson reveals

Azumah Nelson, one of Ghana's most celebrated boxers, has revealed that his toughest fight in his career was against Mexican fighter Mario Martinez.

Speaking on Accra-based Asaase Radio's Breakfast Show on Wednesday, July 26, Azumah Nelson recounted the bout, which took place on February 29, 1988, at the Great Western Forum in Inglewood, California.

He noted that Martinez was expected to be the next Super Featherweight champion, but when they met in the ring, he realized he had met his match.

"My toughest fight was with a Mexican— Martinez. All hopes were banked on him to be the next Super Featherweight champion but when we met, he definitely realized that he’d met his match. He was so tough but I won the fight on a split decision,” he recalled.

Azumah Nelson went into the fight as the underdog against the 22-year-old Martinez, who had a record of 46 wins, four draws, and one defeat, despite holding a world title.

Despite the odds against him, Azumah Nelson proved his mettle and won the fight on a split decision.

Reflecting on the bout at the time, ‘The Professor’ is quoted to have said, "He was so tough, but I won the fight on a split decision."

The fight was a close one, with the scores by the three judges reflecting the fact.

Two judges gave Azumah Nelson the nod, with scores of 115-113, while Mexican Marty Sammon scored 114-113 for his countryman.

By World Boxing Council (WBC) regulations, Azumah Nelson had to relinquish the featherweight title he won in 1984.

However, his victory over Martinez made him the first African ever to win world titles at two different weights.

The fight was a gruelling one, with Azumah Nelson having to go the full 12 rounds to clinch the title.

His victory over Martinez was a historic moment for Ghanaian boxing, and he went on to become one of the country's most beloved sports icons.

His legacy as a champion and a role model continues to inspire young athletes today.

Watch highlights of the match with the link below;