The Homecoming: Riddick Bowe vs. Michael Dokes

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Heavyweight Champion Riddick Bowe returns home to New York City to make the first defense of his title against the tough Michael Dokes. Dokes opts to slug from the outset, which results in Bowe sending him staggering into the ropes after a right hand and a left hook. Bowe keeps punching, but Referee Joe Santarpia stops him and rules a standing eight count in the first heavyweight fight in which it is in the rules. When the fight resumes, they trade huge left hooks, staggering Dokes back into the ropes. Bowe continues to pound away on the helpless Dokes in the corner until Santarpia stops the fight. Dokes protests the stoppage, but Bowe gets the win.