Is Duran an overrated lightweight?

[prime]

Originally Posted by Saintpat

Not disputing the qualifications of Benny Leonard or Ike Williams in any way -- their resumes speak for themselves -- but these experts talking about how long an overmatched opponent lasted (especiallly a runner) obviously didn't do their homework and see if the same was true of Leonard or Williams, because it was.

Both guys won multiple decisions over lesser fighters -- and in Williams' case also lost fights to guys who weren't exactly all-time greats while champ.

Again, doesn't distract from their greatness, but to criticize Duran for not knocking out some crafty survivor types (and skillful ones at that (ask Alexis Arguello how easy Vilomar Fernandez was) and not point out that the other guys also went the distance with some so-so opponents in their lightweight primes is disingenuous.

I agree. Many times "experts'" opinions are disappointing in their narrow focus. The analysis on this site is often much more thoughtful.

As stated above, anybody's record can be knocked. In these "experts'" case, I simply conclude they resisted placing the current top-dog over revered icons. And they may have been right, though not for the reasons expressed.

Duran's win over Leonard must be considered. It proved Duran could whip (in Leonard) an all-time great with top-shelf speed, a welterweight punch, and the ambition, heart and determination to turn back other all-time greats such as Hearns and Hagler.

On the other hand, a top boxer like Benny Leonard or Joe Gans could frustrate and outpoint Duran.