JUAN MANUEL MARQUEZ STUNS TIM AUSTIN

WEEKEND RECAP (02-16-03)

Juan Manuel Marquez's younger brother told all within ear shot that inspired by his brother's victory, he too, would become a champion on Saturday, February 15.

True to his word Rafael Marquez stunned Tim Austin, (25-1-1, 22 KOs) with a vicious right hand in the eighth round that sent Austin through the ropes. In an amazing display of courage, Austin beat the count only to get swarmed by more than a dozen punches by Marquez.

Referee Vic Draculich had to stop the beating at 2:20 of the 8th round, and a new IBF champion was crowned.

Like true champions, the fighters were gracious in victory as well as in defeat. "I'm happy to be a champion like my brother," said Marquez. "Tim Austin is a great fighter and he fought a great fight." A stunned Austin had this to say, "He was at his best tonight. I definitely want the opportunity to fight him again."

Co-Feature: Ricardo Williams vs Juan "Pollo" Valenzuela

It's said that the first loss is always the toughest, and now Ricardo Williams knows what it feels like, as Juan "Pollo" Valenzuela out slugged the Olympian to earn a lopsided unanimous decision.

Giving new meaning to the 'late substitute' label, Valenzuela stepped up to the plate ready, willing and able to bring it to Williams, who saw his footwork negated by the constant pressure applied by Valenzuela.

"I put the pressure on and kept it on," Valenzuela said. "I expected a strong performance, after all, he was an Olympian."

Who claimed Finito's IB Jr. flyweight belt?

Having learned a lesson from their first dance, Jos?Victor Burgos allowed his opponent, Alex "Nene" Sanchez to have his way early on in their fight. The hyper activity caused Sanchez to slow down in the middle rounds, while getting caught with power shots; the damage was telling on his face and body.

A beautiful right uppercut and overhand right staggered Sanchez in the final round. Burgos went after him and overwhelmed him with blows, forcing the fair but firm Joe Cortez to stop the proceedings 1:50 into the 12th assault.

"I feel great being a world champion," said Burgos. "I give credit to Sanchez for his brave effort."

2-16-2003