JO Sports Inc.
HISTORY: On June 7, 1997 at the Arco Arena in Sacramento, California heavyweights David Tua and Ike Ibeabuchi squared off in an important division fight. Ibeabuchi prevailed, winning a unanimous 12 round decision. Ibeabuchi was 16-0 with 12 knockouts, and Tua was 27-0 with 23 knockouts. Tua was the betting favorite.
Ibeabuchi landed 332 of 975 punches, and Tua landed 282 of 755 punches. They combined to throw 1,730 punches, which set the CompuBox record for punches thrown in a heavyweight fight. Ibeabuchi also set the individual record for punches thrown by a heavyweight. HBO's unofficial judge Harold Lederman scored the fight 115-113 for Tua, and Michael Katz of the New York Daily News scored it a draw. After the fight, Ibeabuchi complained of a terrible headache and was taken to a hospital. He underwent several tests, including an MRI, but nothing abnormal was found. After being released from the hospital, Ibeabuchi began to say that he was being plagued by demons and evil spirits.
A week after the fight, Tua had surgery to remove bone chips from his left elbow.
Offered here is an original Participant Credential for this fight.
FULL DESCRIPTION: This is an original Participant Credential which names the fighters, date and venue. One hole atop for neck string. Not creased or torn. Minor discoloration. Clean. Bold print. 3 1/2" x 6 1/4."
