By Sean Crose
Known as the 90 Second Massacre, the famous bout between Mike Tyson and Michael Spinks in June 1988 ended with Tyson swiftly defeating Spinks in just 90 seconds of the first round. This win established Tyson as the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world, showcasing his dominance in the boxing scene. The match took place at Convention Hall in Atlantic City, a momentous occasion in the city’s boxing history.
Atlantic City has been the stage for many other unforgettable boxing showdowns besides Tyson’s victory over Spinks. Memorable fights include Tyson’s wins over Tyrell Biggs and Larry Holmes, Evander Holyfield’s clash with George Foreman, and Roberto Duran’s surprising triumph over Iran Barkley for the middleweight title. The city also witnessed Hector “Macho” Camacho defeat “Sugar” Ray Leonard in a famous match.
Though not every fight in Atlantic City has been a blockbuster event, the city remains a significant player in the boxing world. From Edwin Viruet’s knockout of Norman Goins in 1981 to today’s bouts at the Tropicana, boxing continues to thrive in Atlantic City. This tradition will continue with the upcoming fight between heavyweight contender Otto Wallin and Onoriode Ehwarieme, showcasing a mix of established stars and up-and-coming talent in the sport.
The upcoming event, organized by Boxing Insider Promotions, will present a lineup of seven fights, featuring athletes like Justin Figueroa, Bruce Seldon, and Jacob Solis. This combination of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers underscores the enduring presence of boxing in Atlantic City, setting the stage for the future of the sport.
