George Foreman defends heavyweight title against Ken Norton

On March 26, 1974, in Caracas, Venezuela, George Foreman successfully defended his heavyweight title by defeating Ken Norton in a dominant second-round stoppage.

Before the match, there was significant tension regarding the officiating, with Foreman's camp requesting an American referee while Venezuelan officials preferred a local one; Jimmy Rondeau was eventually selected. Additionally, concerns arose regarding a potential knee injury sustained by Foreman, though it did not prevent the bout.

Norton, who had previously broken Muhammad Ali's jaw, entered the fight as a 3-1 underdog. While Norton attempted to use movement and avoid exchanges in the first round, Foreman began trapping him effectively. In the second round, Foreman pinned Norton against the ropes and delivered a series of powerful shots, leading Norton's corner to signal the end of the fight at the two-minute mark.