Mike Weaver defended his WBA world heavyweight title against Gerrie Coetzee

Date: October 25, 1980

Venue: Superbowl, Sun City, Bophuthatswana (South Africa)

Weaver stance: orthodox

Coetzee stance: orthodox

Mike Weaver had to overcome a very poor start to his pro career. When Duane Bobick stopped him in the seventh round of their contest, it brought his record to 6-6, and four of his losses had been inside the distance. Weaver improved steadily, and despite a couple of losses, he started winning against decent opposition. A fifth round stoppage of contender Bernado Mercado, and a revenge ninth round stoppage of Stan Ward earned Weaver a shot at WBC champion Larry Holmes in 1979. Weaver gave Holmes all he could handle, before losing in the 12th round. In 1980, Weaever challenged WBA champion John Tate and knocked him out with less than a minute of the fight remaining, despite losing the first 14 rounds.

Gerrie Coetzee turned pro in 1974, and won his first 22 bouts. In his 12th fight, he stopped Ron Stander in the eighth round in 1976. Two fights later, he beat his old amateur rival Kallie Knoetze on points. In 1979, Coetzee stopped former world champion Leon Spinks in the first round. This earned him a shot at the vacant WBA title a few months later. Coetzee lost on points to John Tate, despite having home advantage.

For an in depth look at their respective records, visit:

Mike Weaver - https://boxrec.com/en/proboxer/405

Gerrie Coetzee - https://boxrec.com/en/proboxer/176