This would have been a classic, thrill a minute fight while it lasted. The consummate defensive fighter vs the consummate offensive. Wilfred doesn't have the power to keep Aaron off of him, but he does make him miss more than he lands for the first few rounds and counters brilliantly, bringing the crowd to their feet. But Pryor is a hurricane and keeps coming.
By the mid rounds Pryor is landing with more frequency and Wilfred doesn't like it. At heart he is still a tough, prideful Puerto Rican kid who isn't going to allow himself to be intimidated by anyone. Pryor is showing him no respect so Benitez begins fighting Pryor's fight, digging his heels in and landing hard shots, at times even backing Aaron up. The audience goes nuts but "The Hawk" is undaunted and plows forward, relishing the toe-to-toe action.
By the 9nth round the torrid pace is beginning to show on Benitez as he realizes that his only hope for winning is to revert back to his defensive wizardry. But it is too late. Pryor is still throwing upwards of 100 punches per round, more than Benitez can slip and dodge. His once-sharp counters begin to lose their snap and Pryor staggers him in the 11th.
A weary Benitez rises from his stool for the 13th round and is met by a fusillade from Pryor, who backs him into the ropes. Benitez trades bravely but he is badly outgunned. The Hawk buries him under an avalanche of leather and Wilfred is sinking to the canvas when the ref intervenes.