How many times did Leonard and Duran fight? This is a question that has intrigued boxing fans around the world for decades. The legendary rivalry between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao has overshadowed this iconic matchup, but the battles between Sugar Ray Leonard and Roberto Duran remain some of the most memorable in boxing history.
The first fight between Leonard and Duran took place on February 15, 1980, at the Madison Square Garden in New York City. Known as the “No Mas” fight, this match was a pivotal moment in boxing history. The fight lasted for 14 rounds, with Leonard ultimately winning by unanimous decision. It was a fight that showcased the brilliance of both fighters, and it would set the stage for a highly anticipated rematch.
The highly anticipated rematch between Leonard and Duran took place on November 25, 1981, at the Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. This fight was even more intense than the first, with both fighters pushing each other to the limit. After 12 rounds, the judges scored the fight in favor of Duran, who was declared the winner by split decision. This victory was a significant one for Duran, as it put him on the map as one of the greatest boxers of all time.
Following the 1981 rematch, Leonard and Duran engaged in a trilogy of epic battles. The third fight, which took place on September 20, 1983, at the Caesars Palace, was a rematch of the 1981 fight. This time, Leonard was the winner, securing a unanimous decision victory. The fight was a showcase of both fighters’ skills, with Leonard ultimately prevailing in a battle of endurance and technique.
The final fight between Leonard and Duran occurred on April 9, 1984, at the Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas. This fight was a rematch of the 1983 bout and would determine the ultimate winner of the trilogy. After 12 rounds, the judges scored the fight in favor of Duran, who was declared the winner by split decision. However, many boxing experts and fans believed that Leonard had won the fight, leading to a spirited debate about the outcome.
In total, Sugar Ray Leonard and Roberto Duran fought four times. Their epic battles captivated boxing fans and left an indelible mark on the sport. While the exact number of times they fought may be a matter of debate, the legacy of their rivalry will always be remembered as one of the greatest in boxing history. The question of how many times did Leonard and Duran fight may never be fully answered, but their legendary battles will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.
