Marvelous Marvin Hagler, one of boxing's greatest champions, picked Roberto Duran as the best fighter he ever faced. This choice stands out because Hagler fought other legends like Sugar Ray Leonard and Thomas Hearns during his career.
Hagler's opinion carries a lot of weight. He was the undisputed middleweight world champion for years, defending his title 12 times. His fights against Thomas Hearns and John Mugabi are still talked about today. Hagler was part of a group called 'The Four Kings' along with Leonard, Duran, and Hearns. These guys dominated boxing in the 1980s.
When asked about his toughest opponent, Hagler didn't hesitate. He said Duran was the most skillful and the best overall fighter he faced. Hagler explained, "It brought out our skill. He was very experienced." He even called his fight against Duran his favorite.
That fight happened in November 1983 at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. Hagler won by unanimous decision after 15 tough rounds. It's clear the match left a lasting impression on him.
Roberto Duran, known as 'Hands of Stone', was a force to be reckoned with. The Panamanian boxer was naturally smaller than his rivals but made up for it with skill and power. He's considered one of the best lightweights in boxing history. Duran had an impressive career, winning 103 out of 119 fights before retiring at 50.
Duran also had a famous rivalry with Sugar Ray Leonard. They fought three times over the years. Duran won their first match in 1980 but lost the rematch later that year. They met again in 1989, with Leonard coming out on top.
Hagler's professional career lasted 14 years, from 1973 to 1987. During that time, he faced some of the best fighters in the world. The fact that he rates Duran above all others shows just how special 'Hands of Stone' was in the ring.
Hagler's opinion reminds us of the incredible talent that existed in boxing during the 1980s. It also highlights Duran's skill and toughness, even against naturally bigger opponents like Hagler. Their fight remains a classic example of high-level boxing from that golden era.
