Name late replacement examples who beat reigning champions

Harold Johnson was scheduled to defend against Mauro Mina, who pulled out with an injury. He was subbed by Henry Hank who also pulled out with an injury. The final sub was Willie Pastrano. So Pastrano won the title as a substitute for a substitute.

Also, I believe Lionel Rose substituted for Jesus Pimental against Fighting Harada, but I don't think it was a 'last-minute sub'. I think Rose had enough time for training.

 

Willie told the story of getting the call to a guy I knew who was a manager trainer long ago. (Keep in mind Pastrano never let the truth get in the way of a good story):

He said Angelo Dundee called him and asked, “How would you like to fight Harold Johnson for the title?”

Willie’s reply: “Are you kidding? No way. That son of a ***** can punch!”

 

Was Frank Cedeno a late replacement for Charlie Magri's first and only title defence ?

 

Steve Cruz is universally listed as a late replacement for Fernando Sosa in the title match against McGuigan, but I can't find an exact timeframe for when Sosa pulled out and when Cruz was inserted in the fight.

 

The very one I was going to mention. Robinson had a job in a warehouse. He went to his Mother in Laws for his lunch and she gave him a message to call Frank Warren's office urgently. They literally put him in a taxi to go 250 miles to Davidson's hometown, weigh in at lunchtime the next day and fight 12 rounds in the evening.
The gyms are packed with lads that could beat London backed prospects. Robbo is a brilliant example of stay in shape in case you get that call.

 

It was less than a week. Basically, the fight with Sosa was on up to the point he should have got on the plane from Argentina.

 

Mike Cannon ? McVey ? Does ring a bell that.

 

You're taking Rose as a sub ? Sack your Manager.