The bout, promoted as A Matter of Pride (“Cuestión de Orgullo”), matched one of boxing’s greatest champions against the division’s best fighter. Chavez convinced the Arizona Boxing Commission to grant him a license despite concerns about his age and the punishment accumulated over his long career. Critics questioned whether the contest should have been sanctioned, with Senator John McCain among those voicing opposition before the opening bell.
Tszyu answered those concerns with a disciplined performance.
The Australian champion controlled the fight behind a steady jab and accurate right hand. Chavez looked for counter opportunities and tried to slow the pace by tying Tszyu up on the inside, but the younger champion repeatedly landed first. Warnings for low blows and rabbit punches reflected Chavez’s growing frustration as the rounds passed.
The fifth round removed any remaining suspense. Tszyu opened a cut over Chavez’s forehead with crisp combinations, punished him to the body, and forced the challenger backward. The sustained attack underscored the difference in speed and timing between the champion and the 38-year-old former titleholder.
The finish came early in the sixth. After Chavez lost a point for another low blow, Tszyu landed a right hand that dropped the Mexican legend for only the second knockdown of his professional career. Chavez climbed to his feet, but Tszyu immediately trapped him against the ropes and fired unanswered punches. Referee Robert Ferrara stopped the bout at 1:28 of the round as members of Chavez’s corner stepped in to protect their fighter. Frustrated fans responded by throwing debris into the ring.
Both fighters reportedly earned purses of approximately $1.2 million. The victory reinforced Tszyu’s position as the leading fighter at 140 pounds and became another milestone on his path toward unifying the division. It also elevated his profile with American boxing fans.
The defeat ended Chavez’s championship ambitions. He admitted afterward that his body no longer possessed the strength to compete at the highest level, apologized to his supporters, and spoke about retirement. Chavez returned for several more non-title bouts, but his challenge against Tszyu proved to be his final opportunity to fight for a world championship.
