And 40 years on, we've delved back into the Journal archives to reminisce on what was a momentous occasion for the Derry boxing fraternity.
Nash had been on a collision course with fellow southpaw, Watt from the previous year when the Scotsman was holder of the EBU European belt but refused to travel to Derry to defend it against the Creggan man and was duly stripped of his title.
After winning the European title and defending it against Ken Buchanan, Nash earned his shot at Watt. And so on March 14th 1980 Nash and his army of fans from Derry and beyond descended on Glasgow's Kelvin Hall in a bid to be crowned champion on the world.
Nash had the champion on the canvas in the final 20 seconds of the first round after landing a right hook flush to the Glaswegian's chin. Watt managed to get back on his feet without a count and was off the hook. However, in the third Nash was sent tumbling to the floor by Watt, banging his head on the canvas.
The referee, Sid Nathan judged Nash had been knocked down by a left hand and gave a standing eight count. Watt went in for the finish and Nash was down again from a left hook and his world title dream was over.
5. A Ringside Seat at the Kelvin Hall
Derry lightweight Charlie Nash pictured with his entourage ahead of his world title fight against Jim Watt in Glasgow. | other
6. A Ringside Seat at the Kelvin Hall
Derry lightweight Charlie Nash makes his way into the ring at the Kelvin Hall ahead of his world title challenge against Jim Watt. | other
7. A Ringside Seat at the Kelvin Hall
Charlie and Watt at the weigh-in, accompanied by the ring girls. | other
8. A Ringseat Seat at the Kelvin Hall
Charlie drops into the Kelvin Hall where he meets some of his Derry fans, including from left: Sheila Brown, Isabel Duffy and Sally Harkin. | other