On this day, December 31, in 1952, a remarkable chapter in boxing history unfolded.
The legendary Jake LaMotta, renowned for his granite chin and relentless fighting spirit, was knocked down for the first - and only - time in his illustrious career.
The man who achieved this feat was Danny Nardico, a light heavyweight contender, in a non-title bout held in Coral Gables, Florida.
DAZN News takes a closer look at the fight, LaMotta’s legacy, and the fighter who made history.
Jake LaMotta: ‘Raging Bull’
Jake LaMotta was one of the most famous middleweights in boxing history, known for his aggressive style, toughness, and incredible ability to absorb punishment.
He won the middleweight title in 1949 by defeating Marcel Cerdan, cementing his place in the pantheon of boxing greats.
Despite facing heavy hitters like Sugar Ray Robinson in six legendary bouts, LaMotta had never been knocked down - until this fateful night in 1952.
The fight: LaMotta vs. Nardico
By 1952, LaMotta’s best days were behind him. No longer competing at the middleweight peak, he had moved up to light heavyweight, a division where his physical advantages were less pronounced.
Facing Danny Nardico, a Marine Corps veteran and rugged fighter, LaMotta entered the ring in Coral Gables for what would be one of the most significant fights of his career.
In the seventh round, Nardico unleashed a flurry of punches that sent LaMotta to the canvas.
The crowd was stunned - the ‘Raging Bull,’ famous for his indomitable toughness, was finally floored.
Danny Nardico: the man who did the impossible
Nardico was not a household name although he was a respected light heavyweight with a strong record and a reputation for power.
Known for his military service and disciplined approach, Nardico brought grit and determination to every bout.
By knocking down LaMotta, Nardico secured a place in boxing lore, achieving what even legends like Sugar Ray Robinson could not.
Aftermath of the fight
The fight marked the beginning of the end for LaMotta’s career. He fought only a few more times before retiring in 1954.
While Nardico never achieved the heights of LaMotta’s fame, he continued to be a respected competitor, and he retired with a strong record.
The legacy of Jake LaMotta
LaMotta’s life story became the basis for Martin Scorsese’s iconic film Raging Bull (1980) which starred Robert De Niro.
Despite the knockdown, LaMotta’s career remains a testament to resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
His larger-than-life personality and remarkable career ensure that LaMotta’s name remains synonymous with boxing greatness.
The significance of the knockdown
The knockdown serves as a reminder that even the toughest champions are human.
For Danny Nardico, the moment was a career-defining achievement that showcased his power and skill.
This bout remains a significant piece of boxing history, illustrating the drama and unpredictability that make the sport so captivating.
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