Boxer Jim Watt became Glasgow's new king of the ring, on April 17th 1979, when he defeated South African Alfred Pitalua, at the Kelvin Hall, to claim the  WBC world Lightweight title.

The Bridgeton-born southpaw's victory, in the 12th round, sent the home crowd into raptures. The fight was the first world-title bout to have ever been staged in Scotland. The referee, New York's Arthur Mercante had officiated at the first Ali v Frazier heavyweight title joust in March 1971.

On 20 June 1981, Watt fought his last fight, losing his WBC title to Alexis Arguello by a 15-round decision in London. Watt retired with a record of 38 wins (27 by knockout) and 8 losses (3 by knockout).

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