By Jose Muradas:m It was dubbed “The Battle of the Little Giants”. Wilfredo Gomez (44-3-1,42KO’s) was supremely confident that he would continue his unbeaten streak against the relatively unknown Salvador Sanchez (44-1-1, 32 KO’s). Gomez won the WBC super bantamweight title in 1977 by knocking out Korean Dong Kyun Yum (54-5-7, 21 KO’s) in twelve rounds. In 1978, he met Mexican great Carlos Zarate (66-4-0, 63 KO’s), who was a perfect 52-0 before falling to the talented Puerto Rican by knockout in the fifth round.

In the eyes of the Mexican fans, it was Sanchez who would have to avenge the defeat of Zarate. The heated boxing rivalry between Puerto Rico,and Mexico would culminate between these to warriors.

Salvador Sanchez was the reigning WBC featherweight champion. He won the title in February of 1980 by TKO in the thirteenth round, over Danny “Little Red” Lopez (42-6-0, 39 KO’s). He would defend the title against Lopez in a rematch, this time winning by TKO in the fourteenth round. Sanchez would defend the title three more times, before meeting Gomez in August of 81.’ Sanchez was a skilled boxer, who could punch and defend well. He was also known for his great stamina, which he developed training in the high altitude outside of Mexico City. Gomez, the confident knockout artist would match-up against the relentless young champion for the WBC featherweight title.

Gomez entered the ring first,with a salsa band blaring Latin music. The pride of Puerto Rico played to the Las Vegas crowd, assuring himself victory. Sanchez was next, accompanied by his mariachi band, playing traditional Mexican songs as he entered the ring. Both men were called to the center by referee Carlos Padilla to be given instruction.

Seconds later the bell sounded, the fight was under way. Gomez pressed forward attacking Sanchez. The champion, countered rocking Gomez with blistering combinations. Forty seconds into the fight, Gomez hit the canvas,suddenly the air of confidence was gone. Gomez, was just trying to survive the first round. The momentum had completely swung in Sanchez’s favor, and he would not let Gomez in the fight. In the fourth round Gomez started to land his right with some frequency, but he never hurt Sanchez.

The betting crowd at Caesar’s Palace must have been in disbelief as many thought Gomez would win. The fifth round found Gomez trying to survive another firefight with Sanchez. The champ was elusive, slipping punches, and countering with heavy bombs. Gomez’s right eye was just about swollen shut entering the sixth round. The Puerto Rican faithful wondered if there fighter could land the big blow, and turn the fight. In the seventh round, Gomez face was swollen, with both eyes just about closed. Gomez tried to mount an assault, but he could not muster the strength.

The final round approached, and Sanchez backed into the ropes. Gomez came forward, but again could not hurt the champion. Sanchez backed Gomez into the ropes, and unloaded a series of combinations. Gomez looked like he was hit by machine gun fire, almost falling thru the ropes. Gomez went down, rising to meet a count of eight, but Padilla had seen enough. If people didn’t know who Salvador Sanchez was before, they did now.

Gomez tried to land a rematch with Sanchez, but fate would have it otherwise. Sanchez would die in a fatal car accident in August of the following year. A promising career cut short, but in a short time, he left behind a great legacy. Gomez honored him by attending his funeral, and visiting his family. The people of Puerto Rico also paid their respects to the young champion, who left us all too early.