Revisiting the Judging Controversy for the Paul Williams vs. Erislandy Lara Fight on July 9, 2011

On July 9, 2011, at the Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City, New Jersey, we saw one of the most unfair decisions in boxing in recent years, with Paul Williams unbelievably awarded the majority decision win over Erislandy Lara in their 12-round middleweight fight, with the judges scorecards reading 114–114, and the other two cards for Williams being 116–114 and 115–114. Big Fight Weekend are taking you back to fight night and the drama that ensued after.

Paul Williams Controversially Defeats Erislandy Lara

Paul Williams vs. Erislandy Lara Recap

Lara was dominant throughout, being the first to every punch and landing the more telling shots. He mixed his shots well during the fight and was diligent defensively, meaning Williams struggled to land anything of note. The American fighter threw plenty of punches but his attacks were ineffective due to the defensive savviness of his Cuban opponent.

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Lara’s accuracy and power shots far outweighed the American, leading most who were watching to believe Lara was in control of this bout. Williams’ trainer, George Peterson told his fighter after round nine that he needed a KO to win this fight, and the American fighter concurred. The remaining rounds saw Lara continue his beatdown of Williams and by some incomprehensible logic, “The Punisher” had his hand raised.

Check out the Erislandy Lara vs. Paul Williams nostalgia and much more on the Fight Freaks Unite recap podcast with Dan Rafael and TJ Rives.

Judging Controversy

The stunning decision from the judges was branded incompetent by many who saw the fight. The controversy continued into the following week as the New Jersey State Athletic Control Board decided to suspend all three judges who worked the fight.

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In a letter obtained by ESPN, New Jersey commissioner Aaron M. Davis wrote to Dave Itskowitch of Golden Boy Promotions and Williams’ promoter Dan Goossen to inform them of their decision after they reviewed the fight. During this letter, it said: “This agency has placed all three judges on indefinite suspension. Further, all three judges will be required to undergo additional training prior to their return to professional boxing judging.”

It was a terrible decision, and with some questionable judging in recent fights, could we see more suspensions for bad judging?