Duran's career spanned five decades and saw him win world titles across four weight classes. He's considered one of "The Four Kings" alongside Sugar Ray Leonard, Thomas Hearns, and Marvin Hagler, in what many call one of the greatest eras in boxing history.
Despite facing these legendary opponents, Duran singled out de Jesus, a Puerto Rican fighter, as the one who hit the hardest. De Jesus was the first boxer to defeat Duran in 1972 and went on to compile an impressive record of 57 wins from 62 fights. He also briefly held the lightweight world title.
Duran explained his choice to The Ring Magazine:
"De Jesus was the first opponent to knock me down and he had me down again in the second fight. When I lost to Thomas Hearns I was drained from losing weight too quickly, and that had a bad effect on me. Hearns got me with a great punch but I could have performed far better in a rematch. Marvin Hagler, who is a good friend of mine, told Hearns the only reason he knocked me out is because I wasn't at my best."
Duran and de Jesus fought three times. De Jesus won their first encounter in 1972, handing Duran his first defeat. Duran came back to win the rematches in 1974 and 1978.
De Jesus's life took a tragic turn after his boxing career. He was convicted of murder in 1980. While in prison, he contracted AIDS due to drug use. He was released early because of his illness but died just one month later at the age of 38. Duran was among many who visited him in his final days.
This revelation from Duran comes as part of The Ring Magazine's "Best I Faced" segment, where boxing legends reflect on their toughest opponents. It serves as a reminder of the respect between fighters and the unpredictable nature of the sport, where sometimes the hardest punchers aren't always the most famous names.