If you're not a British fight fan, you probably only know Nigel Benn's for his nasty Super Middleweight war with Gerald McClellan in 1995.
That fight had the unfortunate distinction of being improperly handled in terms of training and officiating, and resulting in the serious injury of McClellan. In terms of in-ring action, it was a fairly sloppy affair, but memorable all the same for its shifts in momentum and drama. The fight, its history and aftermath were made even more famous by fighters like Bernard Hopkins and Roy Jones, Jr. referencing it often and attempting to help McClellan, who now is severely handicapped and must be cared for by his family.
That fight isn't the focus here, but it seems like Benn will be forever tied to it, right or wrong.
If you are indeed a British fight fan, and especially if you're old enough to remember the local UK scene in the late 1980's, then you probably remember the "Dark Destroyer" Benn for his tenacity, punching power and downright ferocity early on in his career. You may even remember him a bit for that if you're simply an educated or curious boxing fanatic, but only in hindsight.
The young prospect Logan, hailing from Jamaica, came into the bout at 15-1-1 (11), not having been tested much. The already popular Benn stepped into the ring at 18-0 (18), following a 5-month hiatus due to a promotional/managerial dispute with Frank Warren. Prior to the holiday, Benn had fought 17 times in 15 months.
What ensued once the initial bell rang surprised many fans, but also seemed to endear Benn to the UK boxing public and launch his reputation into orbit overseas. Not only could Benn demolish, but dust himself off and roar back from adversity.
This is one of my favorite short brawls.
Enjoy.
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