Nicolino Locche ~ "The Comeback"

Nicolino Locche ~ "The Comeback"

~ 1972 ~

On March 10, 1972

Nicolino Locche was 'upset' by Panamanian and #4 WBA-Ranked Alfonso Frazer in Panama City, Panama.

Nicolino Locche who was making his 6th-Title Defense of the WBA Light-Welterweight Championship that
he won on December 12, 1968.

Nicolino had held the WBA Champinship for {3 years, 3 months}, and despite being {Age; 32 years, 6 months}
was still considered unbeatable. And what made the 'upset loss' a shocker, was that only 3-Months earlier
on {December 11, 1971} Nicolino had handily defeated the talented Colombian - 'Kid Pambele' {Antonio Cervantes}
in a one-sided 15-Round Decision.

The amazing 'unbeaten' run of 'El Intocable' had ended after '57-Bouts' as he went {54-0-3}. Nicolino had
last loss on November 14, 1964 {7 years, 4 months}.
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~ Following the loss to Alfonso Frazer ~

March 18, 1972

Nicolino immediately 'asked' for a rematch. The Argentinian stated that he had no excsuses for the the loss,
but stated that he had not prepared properly, arriving in Panama on {February 28th} only 10-Days before
the bout."

Nicolino Locche >
"I underestimated 'Peppermint' Frazer. I had beaten 'Kid Pambele' very easily in December 1971 and the
Colombian is a much better fighter than Frazer. I was caught by surprise by Frazer's quickness, and I just
never got untracked in Panama."

"I only had a few days of sparring in Panama, and my timing and speed was not there. Once we fight in
Buenos Aires, I will get my Title back. I guarantee it."

In the 'new' WBA Ratings, Nicolino was listed at #3.

March 20, 1972

~ Nicolino Wants Immediate Rematch, But Won't get One Too Soon ~

Nicolino Locche was asking for an immediate rematch, and at Luna Park in Buenos Aires,
Argentina for late-June 1972.

But, Juan Carlos 'Tito' Lectoure {Advisor} stated that there was no pre-fight 'rematch clause'
signed between 'then' Champion - Nicolino Locche and 'then' Challenger - Alfonso Frazer.

And Carlos Eleta {Advisor for Alfonso Frazer} stated that his fighter was planning on having
'two' 10-Round 'non-title' bouts first, before making his '1st' Title Defense in his home-country
of Panama, and most likely in September 1972.'

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July 2, 1974

~ Fighter's Advisors Agree To A Date and Venue ~

Rematch set >

Champion - Alfonso Frazer and Challenger- Nicolino Locche will fight for WBA Light-Welterweight
Championship.

Both of the fighter's 'advisors' {Carlos Eleta and Juan Carlos 'Tito' Lectoure} agreed upon a
rematch date {September 2nd}, and with the venue set at the Gimnasio Nuevo in Panama.

Nicolino Locche then 'broke' his contract with long-time Trainer - Juan Carlos Cuello who
had been with him since 1969.

Nicolino then hired Trainer - Miguel Cavillon.

The 'new' Trainer said that he would now focus on increasing the power-punching of the former
Champion.

Nicolino Locche opened up his Training Camp on July 3rd in his hometown of Mendoza, Argentina
and stated that he will dedicate himself to a 60-Day training schedule.

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July 10, 1972

~ Alfonso Frazer and Nicolino Locche Sign Fight Contracts for Rematch ~

Both fighters sign contracts for the September 2, 1972 date.

Alfonso Frazer is to receive a fight purse of { $70,000 }, plus ancillary fee's.
Nicolino Locche is to receive a fight purse of { $25,000 }, plus ancillary fee's.

In the newly listed WBA Ratings, Nicolino has dropped to #5.

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August 21, 1972

~ Nicolino Locche Injures Finger, Forced To Pull Out Of Championship Bout ~

While training in Mendoza, Argentina for his upcoming September 2nd bout and rematch
with now Champion - Alfonso Frazer.

Nicolino suffered an injury {cracked bone} to the fore-finger in his right-hand. Nicolino will
require 2-Weeks rest, before resuming his final training preparation.

The Championship Bout will be pushed back 2-Weeks to September 16th, and the venue will
be switched from Panama City, Panama to San Salvador, El Salvador.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

September 10, 1972

~ Nicolino Locche Asks For Another Delay ~

The damaged bone in Nicolino Locche's fore-finger in his right-hand has not healed since he
suffered the injury on August 21st.

The Argentinian was to challenge WBA Champion - Alfonso Frazer on Saturday - September 16th
in San Salvador, El Salvador in an attempt to regain his Championship.

The former Champion has asked the WBA to permit him another delay of {3-Weeks}, and to
re-schedule the bout for October 7th.

October 3, 1972

~ Nicolino Locche Loses Out For Rematch ~

~ WBA Champion - Alfonso Frazer Signs To Defend Against 'Kid Pambele' Antonio Cervantes ~

Former Champion {33 year-old} Nicolino Locche will now have to wait for several more months to see if he
can regain his WBA Light-Welterweight Championship.

The Argentinian was supposed to have faced his Panamanian conqueror Alfonso Frazer on September 2nd,
and then September 16th, but an injury to the fore-finger on Locche's right-hand forced the former Champion
to postpone both Championship bouts.

The Champion - Alfonso Frazer and Challenger - Antonio Cervantes are scheduled to face each other on
October 28th in Panama City, Panama.
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October 5, 1972

~ Nicolino Locche Drops In WBA Ratings ~

*** Alfonso Frazer
#1 . Bruno Arcari {WBC Champion}
#2 . Antonio Cervantes
#3 . Joao Henrique
#4 . Cemal Kamaci
#5 . Roger Zami
#6 . Chang Kil-Lee
#7 . Everaldo Costa Acevedo
#8 . Pedro Adigue
#9 . Nicolino Locche
#10. Manuel Ramos

Forner Champion - Nicolino Locche has dropped to the #9 WBA-ranked Light-Welterweight in the most
recent ratings. The 33 year-old Argentinian has not fought since losing his WBA Belt on March 10, 1972
to Alfonso Frazer.

Nicolino Locche >

"If I cannot secure a rematch, I will resign {retire}. I was having problems with the fore-finger on my
right-hand, which I injured on August 21st. I required 5-Weeks for it to heal properly, and was hoping to
challenge Alfonso Frazer on October 7th."

"Now I will have to re-access my future, and see if I want to continue. I will continue, only if I can get
a chance to fight the winner of the Alfonso Frazer - Antonio Cervantes bout."

Saturday ~ November 18, 1972

Estadio Luna Park ~ Buenos Aires, Argentina

Attendance ....... { 14,100 }

{#9} Nicolino Locche - 106-3-14 {14 KO's} - 5' 6" - 141 lbs. - {Age; 33 years, 2 months}
vs.
{NR} Gerardo Ferrat - 25-8-1 {18 KO's} - 5' 8 1/2" - 139 lbs. - {Age; 25 years, 10 months}

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ The Skinny ~

Nicolino's '1st' comeback bout since losing his WBA Light-Welterweight Championship to
Alfonso Frazer 8-Months ago, back on March 10, 1972.

The 'jury-is-still-out' on whether 'El Intocable' can regain his wizadry.

Gerardo 'El Guero' Ferrat is a tall and lanky hard-punching Mexican fighter. The 4 1/2 year
Professional is based out of Baja California.

Gerardo at one-time {1969 and 1970} was highly-touted and was expected to make some
noise in the Lightweight and Light-Welterweight Division after going unbeaten in his first
'15-Bouts', and scoring an 'upset' {W Dec 10} over former World Junior-Lightweight Champion
Carlos Hernandez in {December 1970} in his home country of Caracas, Venezuela.

After a 'rocky' 1971 where Gerardo went {3-5-0} in '8-Bouts', the Mexican has rebounded
and won 5-of-6 bouts in 1972.
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~ Nicolino Defeats Mexican - Gerardo Ferrat Over 10, But The Jury Is Stll Out ~

A typical Nicilono Locche bout, with the Argentinian showing off his incredible defensive-skills and
rock-granite jaw.

Nicolino opened up by baiting the aggressive Mexican to come forward, where Nicolino would back up
into the Ropes, and counter with left-jabs to his opponent's the face, and left-hooks to his right-side.

In Round 3, Nicolino caught Gerardo coming in with a hard-combination, and nearly dropped the
Mexican with a 'left-right' to the head. Gerardo fell forward and buckled over, nearly touching the
canvas with his gloves.

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But the Mexican continued to come forward, and did catch Nicolino with a hard left-hook late in Round 4,
as he opened up a 'small gash' over the former Champion's right-eye.

The Mexican did put up a good fight in Rounds 5 and 6 as well, as he was the aggressor, and routinely
backed up the former Champion, while tagging Locche with wide hooks, including a few right-hand
'loopers'.

But Nicolino fighting with the Luna Park crowd cheering "Nico, Nico", came on hard in Round 7 as he
scored with several 'left-right' combinations to Ferrat's head, shaking his opponent.

In Rounds 8 and 9, Locche {141 lbs.} put on the 'defensive-wizadry', as he bobbed-and-weaved as
Ferrat came in winging. The Mexican was the aggressor but was only able to get through with a few
grazing punches during these Rounds.

In Round 10, Nicolino backed away and let Ferrat sling away with wide-hooks, while countering the
aggressive Mexican with left-hooks and left-jabs.

At the 'End-of-the Bout', the Mexican lifted up Nicolino and walked around the ring with the former
Champion in his arms.

Scorecards
* 118-116 {4-2-4 in Rounds}
* 117-115 {5-3-2 in Rounds}
* 118-116 {4-2-4 in Rounds}

Fight Purses
* Nicolino Locche ..... { $20,000 }
* Gerardo Ferrat ....... { $4200 } plus travel expenses and amenities.


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Saturday ~ December 16, 1972

Estadio Luna Park ~ Buenos Aires, Argentina

Attendance ....... { 13,200 }

{#9} Nicolino Locche - 107-3-14 {14 KO's} ~ 5' 6" ~ 140 1/2 lbs. ~ {Age; 33 years, 2 months}
vs.
{#15} Rey Mercado - 18-3-0 {6 KO's} ~ 5' 6" ~ 136 1/2 lbs. ~ {Age; 23 years, 2 months}
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~ The Skinny ~

Nicolino Locche is having his 2nd bout in his comeback run.

His opponent is fast-handed Puerto Rican boxer in Rey 'King' Mercado. Rey is very quick and
physically-built, but is a small-sized Light-Welterweight. Mercado is a sound and good
technical boxer.

Rey is a 3-Year Professional, and is coming off an impressive 'upset' {KO 6} over French
Light-Welterweight Champion - Baldassare Picone on November 4th in Paris, France.

Rey also has an upset win {TKO 5} over #8 WBC Light-Welterweight - Chris Fernandez
back on June 30th at Madison Square Garden.
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~ Nicolino Scores Decision Win Over Puerto Rican Speedster - Rey Mercado ~

Nicolino Locche was methodical in his 10-Round Decision win over fast-handed and fleet-footed
speed-specialist Rey 'King' Mercado.

The small-sized Puerto Rican was fast and quick over the early going, as he would dart in to
fire fast '2' and '3' punch combinations, and then bounce outside and away from the former
Light-Welterweight Champion.

But the bigger Argentinian bulled his way in close on Mercado during the middle-Rounds, and
used his brute-strength to maul his opponent, especially in Rounds 4, 5, 7 and 8.

Mercado rallied in Round 9, as he used the last of his strength and speed to out-box the
slower 33 year-old Locche.

In the Final Round {Round 10}, Locche was 'masterful' and went to his straight-forward pressing
style, and used solid left-hands to the body and short right-hands to the head which had the visitor
'groggy' and on shaky-pins over the last-half of the Round.

Nicolino Locche won by {3-Points} on all '3' Scorecards.

The Associated Press scored the bout { 6-3-1 } in Rounds for Nicolino Locche.

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December 1972

~ WBA Ratings ~

*** Antonio Cervantes
#1 . Bruco Arcari {WBC Champion}
#2 . Alfonso Frazer
#3 . Joao Henrique
#4 . Cemal Kamaci
#5 . Roger Zami
#6 . Chang Kil-Lee
#7 . Everaldo Costa Acevedo
#8 . Pedro Adigue
#9 . Nicolino Locche
#10. Manuel Ramos

Nicolino has dropped from *World Champion {March 10, 1972} all the way down to #9.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ Ring Magazine ~

*** Antonio Cervantes {WBA Champion}
#1 . Bruno Arcari {WBC Champion}
#2 . Victor Ortiz
#3 . Alfonso Frazer
#4 . Carlos Maria Giminez
#5 . Romano Fanali
#6 . Eddie Perkins
#7 . Joseph Tetteh
#8 . Cemal Kamaci
#9 . Roger Zami
#10. Joao Henrique

This was the first time since November 1961, that Nicolino Locche had 'not' been Rated in
the Top 10 by Ring Magazine.

For 11 straight years, Nicolino was listed in the Top 10 of the Lightweight Division
{November 1961 thru March 1967} and Light-Welterweight Division {April 1967 thru
November 1972}.

Thursday ~ January 25, 1973

Estadio Luna Park ~ Buenos Aires, Argentina

Attendance ..... { 16,270 } 'Sell-Out'

{9} Nicolino Locche - 108-3-14 {14 KO's} ~ 5' 6" ~ 138 lbs. ~ {Age; 33 years, 3 months}
vs.
{8} Pedro Adigue - 34-12-5 {15 KO's} ~ 5' 7" ~ 142 lbs. ~ {Age; 29 years, 11 months}
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Nicolino will go for his 3rd straight win during his 'comeback run'. This will by Nicolino's
toughest opponent by far. Nicolino who is ranked at #9 WBA is taking on Pedro Adigue
who is ranked one-notch higher at #8 WBA.

Pedro Adigue of the Philippines is the former WBC Light-Welterweight Champion, from
{December 14, 1968 thru January 31, 1970}.

Adigue is an aggressive-boxer, who comes to fight. The Filipino has won '5-Straight' with
'4' coming by way of Knockout.

Pedro is currently the OPBF Light-Welterweight Champion.

This bout was originally scheduled for January 18th, but Pedro had difficulties in Manila
with his Passport and Visa.
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~ Nicolino Locche Performs Like Ghost, Decisions Filipino Adigue ~

Nicolino Locche 'El Intocable' performed like a 'ghost' in the Ring, and was untouchable
in winning a 10-Round Decision over former WBC Light-Welterweight Champion - Pedro Adigue
of the Philippines.

The Argentinian {138 lbs.} fighting before a sell-out crowd of { 16,270 } at Estadio Luna Park
did his magic, by 'nodding, bobbing, stepping back and bursting forward' to totally confuse
the aggressive Filipino, and had the visitor swinging at air most of the time.

Locche 'jabbed-and-countered', while stepping side-to-side and lowering his arms, baiting
Adigue to swing away. And when he did, Adigue was unable to reach Loche with a single
hard-blow.

Though Locche was in control, many of the Rounds were 'close' or 'even', as the Argentinian
was minimal with his offense.

On the other hand, Pedro Adigue was tenacious, and attacked aggressively in every Round.
But the Filipino walked into counters in every Round.

Scorecards
* 199-196 > {4-1-5 in Rounds}
* 199-197 > {3-1-6 in Rounds}
* 198-197 > {3-2-5 in Rounds}

Fight Purses
* Nicolino Locche ....... { $20,000 }
* Pedro Adigue .......... { $10,000 } plus travel expenses and amenities.


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Nicolino Locche >
"I performed well, and gave the Filipino a schooling. He hardly laid a glove on me, and I
boxed with smart tactics."

"I would like one more bout before I challenge 'Kid Pambele' {Antonio Cervantes}."

Pedro Adigue >
"This is ridiculous scoring. I was the one making the fight, as I was putting pressure on
him in every Round."

"He didn't want to fight, and he backed away every time that I moved in. How could he win.
I will never come back here to Argentina."

February 1973

~ WBA Ratings ~

*** Antonio Cervantes
#1 . Bruno Arcari {WBC Champion}
#2 . Alfonso Frazer
#3 . Joao Henrique
#4 . Cemal Kamaci
#5 . Nicolino Locche
#6 . Roger Zami
#7 . Everaldo Costa Acevedo
#8 . Chang Kil-Lee
#9 . Pedro Adigue
#10. Josue Marquez

Following Nicolino's win {W Dec 10} over Pedro Adigue on January 25, 1973 > Nicolino
moved up in the WBA Ratings from {#9} to {#5}.

WBA Champion Antonio Cervantes, who won the Title back on October 28, 1972 by a {KO 10}
over Alfonso Frazer, had signed to make his '1st' Title Defense against smart-boxing but
light-hitting Puerto Rican - #10 WBA-ranked Josue Marquez on February 15, 1973.

Friday ~ February 9, 1973

Club Gimnasia y Esgrima ~ Ciudad Mendoza, Argentina

Attendance ....... { 14,500 } 'Sell-Out'

{5} Nicolino Locche - 109-3-14 {14 KO's} ~ 5' 6" ~ 140 lbs. ~ {Age; 33 years, 5 months}
vs.
{NR} Benny Huertas - 25-15-4 {8 KO's} ~ 5' 5" ~ 138 lbs. ~ {Age; 27 years, 1 month}
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Nicolino is having his 'final tune-up' bout, in hopes of Challenging WBA Light-Welterweight
Champion - Antonio Cervantes next month {March 1973}

Remarkably, this is Nicolino's 1st-Bout in his hometown of Mendoza in nearly 4-Years, since
{April 3, 1969}.

The bout is held at the Club Gimnasia es Grima de Mendoza, an outdoor football stadium
which seats { 10,500 } with an additional { 4000 } infield seats that have been added.

Benny Huertas is a tough-scrappy club-fighting Puerto Rican who is based out of Brooklyn,
New York.

Benny is a 'fan favorite', as he plows forward and is willing to trade with anyone. Benny
who is a 9-Year Professional, has a {KO 10} over Rey Mercado in {August 1971}, the same
fighter who went 10-Rounds with Nicolino only 2-Months ago on {December 16, 1972}.
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~ The Great Nicolino Scores An Easy Decision Over Benny Huertas ~

Former WBA Light-Welterweight Champion - Nicolino Locche scored an easy shut-out
10-Round Decision over trial-horse Benny Huertas.

Fighting before a sell-out crowd of { 14,500 } hometown fans in Mendoza > Nicolino
boxed smoothing and moved around the ring like an 'invisible ghost' as the Puerto
Rican visitor chased, but could not land with anything solid.

Locche out-muscled Huertas during the first-half of the bout, and then counter-punched
the ever-trying Puerto Rican over the second-half of the bout.

In Round 10, Nicolino displayed his 'magic', as he laid on the Ropes and let Huertas hit
him. Then Nicolino would wait for an opening, and explode with a fast-flurry of punches
to the head to drive Huertas back.

Scorecards
* 200-191 > {9-0-1 in Rounds}
* 200-191 > {9-0-1 in Rounds}
* 200-192 > {8-0-2 in Rounds}




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February 21, 1973

~ Nicolino Locche 'The Untouchable' Will Challenge WBA Champion - Antonio Cervantes ~

The long awaited rematch between Nicolino Locche and current WBA Light-Welterweight Champion
Antonio Cervantes will take place on March 17, 1973 in Maracay, Venezuela at the Maestranza
{Bull Ring} Cesar Giron Stadium.

Nicilino is the former Champion, and now is the #5 WBA-ranked Light-Welterweight. The 33 1/2 year-old
Argentinian has a record of 110-3-14 with {14 KO's}.

Locche , who lost his WBA Championship last year {March 10, 1972} to Panamanian - Alfonso Frazer,
was idle for 8-Months before returning on November 18, 1972.

The great boxing Argentinian has won 4-Straight during his comeback run, and hopes to regain the
Championship that he held for {3 years, 3 months} from December 12, 1968 thru March 10, 1972.

Nicilono had defended his Title '5' times during his reign, including an impressive and one-sided
{W Dec 15} over Antonio Cervantes only 15-Months earlier on {December 11, 1971}.
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Antonio 'Kid Pambele' Cervantes of Colombia is an experienced 9-year Professional, who started
his career in January 1964.

The Champion claims to be {Age; 27 years, 3 months}, and has a record of 60-9-3 with {27 KO's}.

But, many in Colombia have stated that Antonio is closer to {Age; 30}, and that he has had
closer to 100-Bouts Bouts under his belt, not the '72' that are listed.

Antonio won the WBA Light-Welterweight Championship with a {KO 10} over Alfonso Frazer only
5-Months earlier on October 28, 1972.

Antonio has won '5-Straight' since losing to Nicolino Locche on December 11, 1971.

Antonio 'recently' defended his Title for the 1st-time, by scoring a 15-Round Decision over
Puerto Rican - Josue Marquez on February 15th.

Antonio Cervantes now lives in Caracas, Venezuela after leaving Colombia at the end of 1968.

March 17, 1973

~ WBA Light-Welterweight Champion ~

Maestranze {Bull Ring} Cesar Giron Stadium ~ Maracay, Venezuela

Fight Promoter > Ramiro Machado

Attendance ......... { 10,320 }
Gate Receipts .... { $110,000 }

{*} Antonio Cervantes - 60-9-3 {27 KO's} ~ 5' 9" ~ Reach; 72" ~ 139 1/2 lbs. ~ {Age; 27 years, 3 months}
vs.
{#5} Nicolino Locche - 110-3-14 {14 KO's} ~ 5' 6" ~ Reach; 67" ~ 139 lbs. ~ {Age; 33 years, 6 months}
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~ The Skinny ~

Antonio Cervantes entered the Ring as a 'slight-favorite' {5-3} to retain his WBA Champinship.

When they fought the '1st-Time' in December 1971 > Cervantes only used his left-jab, and was
reluctant to use his right-hand much, in fear of getting countered by Nicolino Locche, which he was.

Fight Purses;

* Antonio Cervantes .. { $50,000 } from the Gate Receipts.
* Plus the Television Broadcast rights .. { $15,000 in ancillary fee's} to Central America, Venezuela, Colombia and Puerto Rico.
* Plus { $2500 } in an Advertising Fee from a Venezuela/Colombia Sporting Goods Company
* Total .. { $67,500 }

* Nicolino Locche ...... { $18,000 } from the Gate Receipts.
* Plus the Television Broadcast rights .. { $9000 in ancillary fee's} to South America {Argentina, Brazil, Peru, Uruguay, Chile and Ecuador}
* Also { $2500 } in up front Training Expenses, as well as Travel Expenses and amenities of an additional { $3500 }.
* Plus { $3000 } from 'Penaflor' {Vineyard and Wineries}, the sponsor of Nicolino Locche.
* Total .. { $36,000 }

~ Antonio Cervantes vs. Nicolino Locche 'II"

~ The Bout ~

Both fighters looked physically fit. The Champion - Antonio Cervantes would have a 3" Height
and 5" Reach advantage, to go along with youth {6 years, 3 months younger} speed and new
found power.

The 5' 9" Cervantes, now had a more muscular upper-back in his thin body.

Nicolino Locche looked his typical self, with a thick upper-body, to go along with his natural
brute-strength.
__________________________________________________ _____________________________

Round 1

Both fighters started out at Center-Ring, with Cervantes slowly circling to his left while flinging out
sharp left-jabs.

Nicolino was content to look to counter, while staying low.

Cervantes had good aggressive 'expolosions' at the {1:00}, {2:04}, {2:33} Marks, which drove
Nicolino backwards and into the Ropes.

Cervantes was showing excellent speed, and now a dangerous slashing right-hand which snapped
Nicolino's head back 'twice' in this Round.

Round 1 ....... {10-9} Antonio Cervantes
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Round 2

Both met at Center-Ring, and exchaged left-jabs.

At the {0:35 Mark} > Cervantes caught Nicolino with a hard 'left-right-left', and then exploded with a
fast '9-Punch' combination that drove Nicolino into the left-side Ropes.

Both returned to Center-Ring, and exchanged hard left-jabs. Nicolino scored with a hard left at the
{0:58 Mark}.

Nicolino went to bending low to avoid Cervantes long-range spearing left-jabs. At the {1:14 Mark},
both fighters got into a heated exchange at Center-Ring.

At the {1:42 Mark}, both continued to land good left-hands. Over the last-minute, Cervantes stayed
aggressive, and scored with '2' fast {3-Punch} explosions to force Nicolino on the defensive.

Round 2 ....... {10-9} Antonio Cervantes

~ Antonio Cervantes vs. Nicolino Locche 'II' ~

Round 3

Both meet at Center-Ring, and exchange left-jabs. Immediately at the {0:10} Mark,
Niclino goes aggressive and attacks with a {4-Punch} flurry driving Cervantes into
the back-right Corner.

As Nicolino is coming in, Cervantes whips in a fast overhand-slashing right-hand that
catches Nicolino on the left eye-brow, which immediately opens up a 'bad gash'.

Nicolino backs out to Center-Ring, as he is stung by the slashing-punch. Cervantes
moves out quickly, and attacks with rapid-punches at Center-Ring.

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Cervantes stays aggressive, as both trade. Cervantes droves Nicolino over to the right
side Ropes, and rips away with a right-uppercut and continues with left-jabs to Nicolino's
left eye area.

At the {1:00 Mark} both fighters trade at Center-Ring in an aggressive barrage. Cervantes
drives Nicolino into the back right Ring area at the {1:13 Mark}, where the fighters clinch.

Referee - Luis Salbaran notices the 'bad gash' over Nicolino's left-eye, and calls for the Ringside
Physician to examnine the cut. The Doctors says that the bout can resume.

The action resumes at the {1:36 Mark}. Both fighters now go at it at Center-Ring, by trading
with hard combinations. The Cesar Giron Stadium erupts with 'roars'.

Both continue to trade bombs for the next 20-Seconds. Nicolino backs off at the {2:00 Mark},
and moves away as Cervantes moves in by firing out fast left-jabs

At the {2:21 Mark} Cervantes lands a hard left-hook underneath into Nicolino's mid-section
that make his bend at the waist. Nicolino goes to moving again, as Cervantes stalks with
spearing left-jabs targeting Nicolino's left eye area.

Nicolino makes a brief charge at the {2:48 Mark}, and backs Cervantes up into the front Ropes.

Roudn 3 .... {10-9} Antonio Cervantes

~ Antonio Cervantes vs. Nicolino Locche 'II" ~

At the end of Round 3, World Middleweight Champion - Carlos Monzon entered the Ring
and into the corner of Nicolino Locche to offer his words of encouragement to his countryman.

Round 4

Both meet at Center-Ring, but now Nicolino goes aggressive, and starts winging looping
'haymakers' at Cervantes.

The Champion remains calm, and keeps his hands up in a 'high-guard', as to not get caught
by a 'sucker-punch'.

At the {1:00 Mark}, Nicolino is the aggressor, and is backing up the Champion. Each time
that Cervantes mounts a charge, Nicolino goes to bending at the waist, with his 'bob-and-weave'
defense.

The 'gash' over Nicolino's left-eye is not an issue at this time.

By the {1:35 Mark}, Cervantes looks to be slowing down, as his punches are now coming in
slower.

Nicolino continues to force the fight, and puts constant pressure on the Champion who is
backing away trying to get some distance.

At the {2:00 Mark} Cervantes mounts an offense, but he is now throwing arm-punches, as
Nicolino continues to move in.

Late in the Round {2:40 Mark}, Cervantes does get off '7' rapid-fire left-jabs as Nicolino
moves in close.

Round 4 ....... {10-9} Nicolino Locche
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Round 5

Nicolino is the aggressor early, but Cervantes comes on strong at the {0:20 Mark} with a fast
4-Punch combination.

Both move to Center-Ring, and the Champion is jabbing while slowly circling to his left. Both
exchange with left-jabs.

Nicolino makes his move at the {1:00 Mark}, and presses the fight. But the Champion is countering
well with quick '2-Punch' attacks, and then moves away.

Cervantes scores with a good 'double' left-hook to the body at the {1:14 Mark}, then follows up
with another double-left. Cervantes then explodes at the {1:24 Mark}, with a hard '3-Punch' barrage.

Cervantes goes to the aggressive-stance at the {1:35 Mark}, and then moves to Center-Ring while
pecking away with fast left-jabs.

By the {2:00 Mark}, Cervantes is moving well, while scoring with left-jabs to the face, and quick
'left-right' attacks on Nicolino.

Nicolino starts to press at the {2:10 Mark}, and backs Cervantes into the front Ropes at the {2:30 Mark}
and scores with left-hands while the Champion leans back and blocks.

Round 5 ...... {10-9} Antonio Cervantes

~ Antonio Cervantes vs. Nicolino Locche 'II ~

Round 6

Both meet at Center-Ring, as each look to counter. At the {0:15 Mark}, Cervantes
opens up with a fast '3-Punch' flurry.

At the {0:20 Mark} each trade with '4' solid left-jabs to each other's face. Locche
now attacks, but is missing with his left-hands.

Cervantes is countering well at the {0:29 Mark}. Cervantes is jabbing, and lands with
a solid combination at the {1:00 Mark} which drives Nicolino to the front-right Ropes.

Both meet at Center-Ring at the {1:25 Mark}, and both trade with medium power-
punches. Nicolino goes to pressing, and Cervantes circles away to the back Ropes.

As Nicolino moves in and punches, Cervantes counters with a hard '5-Punch' barrage
at the {1:39 Mark}.

Both continue to trade at the {2:00 Mark}, and the action is 'even'. Nicolino goes to slapping
away with his left hands into the Champion's face, and forces him to give ground.

Cervantes comes back with 'spearing' left-jabs to the face at the {2:20 Mark}.

Cervantes is firing out left-jabs, but he is missing at the {2:45 Mark}. Nicolino continues
to press, while flicking in an occasional left-hook or left-jab.

The Champion rallies back well over the last 7-Seconds.

Round 6 ........ {10-10} 'Even'
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Round 7

Again both meet at Center-Ring, and trade light left-jabs. Cervantes is slowly moving to his left.

At the {0:25 Mark}, the Champion lands a hard left, and comes over the top with a tremendous
looping right-hand that catches Nicolino over his left-eye.

https://sp.yimg.com/ib/th?id=HN.6079...4&pid=15.1&P=0

Cervantes continues to send out sharp left-jabs. At the {0:41 Mark}, Nicolino starts to press, and
backs Cervantes up, while attacking with 'left-right-left' combinations.

Cervantes tries to counter, but is missing with his punches. Cervantes does catch Nicolino with a
good left-jab to the cut-eye, and Nicolino starts wiping away the blood at the {0:55 Mark}. But
Locche attacks, and drives Cervantes to the right-side Ropes.

Cervantes blocks the punches, and comes off the Ropes with an all-out attack at the {1:18 Mark}.

The Champion drives Locche backwards and across the Ring, and into the back Ropes, and
swarms all over the Argentinian with a barrage of punches.

At the {1:26 Mark}, Referee - Luis Salbaran moves in and halts the action, to have the Ringside
Physician examine the cut over Locche's left-eye.

After 18-Seconds, the bout resumes at the {1:44 Mark}.

Both meet at Center-Ring, and Locche immediately puts on the pressure for the next {20-Seconds},
forcing the Champion to back away.

But Cervantes steps in at the {2:06 Mark} and counters with a hard 'left-right' that jars Locche.

But the Challenger digs in, and presses forward with a hard attack, including landing with a solid
'left-right-left-right' that sends Cervantes backwards and into the back Ropes.

But Cervantes fights back, and at the {2:28 Mark} he catches Locche with a big left-hook to the chin
rocking the Argentinian, and forcing him to bend-low to avoid any follow up punches.

Cervantes maintains the late-Round pressure, and backs Locche up to the back Ropes at the
{2:54 Mark}, where he pins the Challenger, and unloads with a '6-Punch' barrage to the head.

Round 7 ......... {10-9} Antonio Cervantes

~ Antonio Cervantes vs. Nicolino Locche ~

Round 8

Again both meet at Center-Ring, and exchange measuring left-jabs. Nicolino goes
aggressive, and scores with a series of left-hands at the {0:19 Mark}.

Nicolino stays aggressive, and forges ahead by flicking in left-hands. Cervantes counters
with hard looping right-hand at the {0:26 Mark}.

But Nicolino stays aggressive while exhibiting good defense at the {0:40 Mark}. Cervantes
counters with sharp left-jabs at Nicolino's cut left-eye. But Nicolino is still forcing the fight,
and keeps moving forward at the {1:10 Mark}.

The Champion is slowing down some, and backs away while looking to counter. Nicolino
lands a good 'right-left' to Cervantes head, forcing him to back up to the front Ropes at
the {1:30 Mark}.

Nicolino steps in close at the {1:39 Mark}, and lands with a hard 'left-right-left-right'. But
Cervantes rallies, and scores with a solid 'left-right-left-right' to the Argentinian's head
driving him backwards at the {1:45 Mark}.

Cervantes is now putting on the pressure, and drives Nicolino into the right-side Ropes
at the {1:56 Mark}.

Cervantes lands with '2' hard left-hands, and drives Nicolino into the back right Corner at the
{2:02 Mark}.

The Referee - Luis Salbaran moves in, and has the Ringside Physician examine the cut
over Nicolino's left-eye. The Physician says that the bout can continue, but for the Referee
to watch the cut, and to stop the bout if it gets any worse.

The action resumes at the {2:20 Mark}.

Locche immediately goes to center-Ring, and aggressively charges into the Champion with
left-hands. Cervantes is forced to counter, and does well by landing in with quick 'left-right'
punches at the {2:30 Mark}.

Nicolino continues to press, and drives Cervantes into the back right Corner, and wails away.
But, Cervantes comes back with his own hard punches.

Nicolino scores with a good 'left-left-right' at the {2:45 Mark}, but Cervantes counters with
a sharp 'right-left-left' to the head.

Nicolino is still pressing at the end of the Round, as the Champion slows a bit.

Round 8 ...... {10-9} Nicolino Locche
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In between Rounds, the Nicolio Locche corner worked feverishly on the cut over the left-eye,
as the 'gash' was very bad.

Round 9

~ Antonio Cervantes vs. Nicolino Locche ~

Round 9

Both meet at Center-Ring, and fling out left-jabs at each other. Cervantes takes the
lead at the {0:21}, and starts by firing out a sharp 'left-right' into Nicolino's left-eye.

Nicolino makes a hard charge at the {0:31 Mark}, and scores with a 'left-right-left-right'
to the head that drives Cervantes into the right-side Ropes.

Nicolino continues to press, and flicks in left-hands into the Champion. But Cervantes is
too fast, and avoids Nicolino's second-charge at the {0:54 Mark}.

Cervantes attacks with a 'wild' right-hand, as both fighters clinch at the {1:00 Mark}.

Cervantes goes to jabbing at Nicolino's left-eye, as he moves to his right at the {1:10 Mark}.

Nicolino continues to press, but he cannot get off with any solid punches. Nicolino is directly
in front of the Champion, but he is not firing any punches at the {1:17 Mark}.

Cervantes digs in a good right-hand to the body, and follows with a solid left-hook to the
head at the {1:21 Mark}.

Nicolino gets through with '2' left-hands at the {1:30 Mark}, and backs up Cervantes.

The Champion is 'loading up' and is looking to fire a right-hand. Cervantes scores with a
fast '4-Punch' combination at the {1:48 Mark}. The Champion follows up with a sharp
right-hand lead to Nicolino's damaged left-eye at the {1:54 Mark}.

Cervantes is too fast for Nicolino, who cannot land a counter-punch. Cervantes now moves
to his right, while sticking in straight right-hand leads into Nicolino's left-eye.

Nicolino's left-eye is in bad shape now {2:08 Mark}. Cervantes scores with a fast '3-Punch'
combination, and continues to target the left-eye at the {2:16 Mark}.

Nicolino is now at Center-Ring, as Cervantes easily circles around him, and flicks out left-jabs.

Cervantes moves in and fires away at the {2:41 Mark}, and catches Nicolino with a hard left-hook,
and then continues to circle and jab.

Nicolino is stlll trying to get in close, and both trade-punches at the {2:55 Mark}.

Round 9 ...... {10-9} Antonio Cervantes

~ Antonio Cervantes vs. Nicolino Locche 'II" ~

After Round 9

Scorecards
* 98-96 > {3-1-5 in Rounds} > Antonio Cervantes
* 96-95 > {5-4-0 in Rounds} > Antonio Cervantes
* 97-95 > {5-3-1 in Rounds} > Antonio Cervantes

All of the scoring officials were more than fair in awarding points to Nicolino Locche.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In Nicolino Locche's corner, handlers {Trainer; Miguel Pavillon} and {Physician; Dr. Robert Paladino}
desperately work on the cut left-eyebrow of their fighter.

Manger/Advisor; Carlos 'Tito' Lectoure leans through the Ropes to discuss the situation with Nicolino.
Mr. Lectoure wants to stop the bout, and pleads with Nicolino to end it.

The great Argentinian Warrior refuses, and wants to go on and believes he can turn the bout around.

Referee - Luis Salbaran [center] looks in on the group in Locche's corner.

http://i1.ytimg.com/vi/CG0wvuZtoPI/hqdefault.jpg

~ It's All Over For Nicolino ~

Nicolino Locche is checked out by his handler {Dr. Robert Paladino}. Nicolino waited in
his corner for the Bell to sound to start Round 10.

Just as the Bell sounded, Dr. Paladino threw a white-towel into the center of the Ring.

Nicolino who did not know it, but his Trainer - Miguel Pavillon was directly behind him,
standing behind the Ring Post outside the Ring.

As Dr. Paladino threw in the towel, Trainer - Miguel Pavillon grabbed the back waist-band
of Nicolino's boxing-trunks, preventing him from walking out of the Corner.

Nicolino was visibly upset, and wanted to go out to fight on. Then Referee - Luis Salbaran
waved that the bout was over.

http://img.youtube.com/vi/v7lUmon-pm8/0.jpg

Immediately Manager/Advisor - Carlos 'Tito' Lectoure jumped up into the ring to console his
fighter.

Also, Argentinian compatriot and World Middleweight Champion - Carlos Monzon went up into
the Ring immediately to console his fellow countryman.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Carlos 'Tito' Lectoure >

"The cut was very bad at the end of Round 8. And, I told the {corner}, if the cut got any worse
to stop the bout, as I knew Nicolino would never quit."


"Then in Round 9, Nicolino was badly out-punched by Cervantes, and he could not see the hard
right-hand punches coming in on his left-eye. There was no need to let it go any further as the
Champion {Cervantes} had too much speed and power."

Monday ~ March 19, 1973

~ Nicolino Locche To Retire ~

33 1/2 year-old Nicolino Locche of Argentina will retire, with a record of 110-4-14 in '128-Bouts'
over a '14-Year' career that started on December 11, 1958.

Nicolino, 'El Intocable' was stopped by a TKO 10 by WBA Champion - Antonio Cervantes on
Saturday Night {March 17th} in an attempt to regain his Light-Welterweight Championship.

In that bout, Antonio Cervantes had too much speed and power for Nicolino to overcome, as the
Champion took control from the outset of their bout, and was the more effective boxer.

The 'popular' Argentinian suffered a bad gash on his left eyebrow in Round 3, and it was examined
'3' separate times by the Ringside Physician during the bout. The cut was re-opened in Round 7,
and hampered the Argentinian's vision over the last 2 1/2 Rounds.

Antonio Cervantes continually targeted the left-eye, by placing sharp left-jabs on the eye area.
The Champion had Locche spinning dizzily during Round 9, as he circled to his right and sent slashing
right-hands into the cut, opening the gash further.

Nicolino made a great show, but he was no match for Cervantes, the same fighter he handily defeated
a 15-Months earlier, on December 11, 1971.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Nicolino Locche >

"I was never hurt by Cervantes' punches, but that right-hook in Round 3 damaged my eyebrow. My
cornermen did a good job of sealing the cut, but he {Cervantes} re-opened it again in Round 7."

"I had a good Round 8, and I thought that I could swing the tide, but the blood from the cut got in
my left-eye, and I had a hard time seeing out the eye in Round 9."

"Cervantes was very good, and he now has a hard right-hand to go with a slashing left-jab. He hit
me with more punches than anybody else has in all my previous '127-Bouts'.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedi...cche_1973.jpeg