James Toney thinks Roberto Duran would beat Gervonta Davis in a fantasy fight. The former three-division world champion shared his thoughts on this hypothetical matchup between two lightweight greats from different eras.
Toney, who started his pro career in 1988 and won world titles in three weight classes, believes the fight would be close. In an interview with Mill City Boxing, he said:
"Roberto Duran, but it would have been a hell of a fight because they're both great. but Duran, when he was at 135, nobody was touching him. It would be a brawl because either one don't know how to go backwards."
Duran, nicknamed "Hands of Stone," started his career two decades before Toney. The Panamanian fighter became a champion in four weight classes and was the second boxer to have a career spanning five decades. He fought 119 professional bouts, losing only 16. Many consider Duran the greatest lightweight champion in history.
Davis, known as "Tank," currently holds a belt in the lightweight division. He's racked up an impressive record of 31 fights with 28 knockouts. His most recent bout against Lamont Roach Jr ended in a controversial draw, with a rematch likely set for the summer.
Toney's prediction highlights the aggressive, forward-moving style of both fighters. He believes Duran's dominance at 135 pounds would give him the edge in this fantasy matchup.
Duran was part of the "Four Kings" of boxing, along with Sugar Ray Leonard, Marvin Hagler, and Thomas Hearns. These fighters had a lasting influence on the sport during their peak careers.
While Duran watches boxing from the sidelines these days, the debate about how past champions would fare against today's stars continues to captivate fans and experts alike.
