Hagler vs. Leonard thirty sixth anniversary

Thirty six years ago, one of the most memorable fights in boxing history took place, when Sugar Ray Leonard defeated “Marvelous” Marvin Hagler, winning the World Boxing Council middleweight title from him at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.

On April 6, 1987, everything seemed to be against Leonard, when he stepped into the ring to face formidable Hagler, who was considered the best fighter at 160 pounds with 11 title defenses, including victories over Roberto Durán, Thomas Hearns, John Mugabi, Vito Autofermo and Juan Domingo Roldán, among others, during his reign of power that began in 1980.

Leonard, a former welterweight champion, had not fought since May 1984 when he defeated Kevin Howard, in which he suffered an injury that kept him out of the ring for three years.

It was the classic fight between a puncher and a boxer from the first bell. Leonard dominated the early rounds with his speed and constant movement around the ring, while Hagler was always pursuing, looking to establish dominance with his powerful punch, but without decisive success.

On several occasions Hagler managed to land hard punches, but without seriously hurting Leonard, who followed his plan to the letter, not getting involved in a constant exchanges and utilizing his brilliant skills.

At the end of twelve absorbing rounds, two judges saw Leonard as the winner with scores of 115-113 and 118-110, while the third judge favored Hagler 115-113.