Lets imagine, if Duran hadn't skipped 140 back in 1978/79, and instead tried to pick up the Junior welterweight title, before going to welter. Could Aaron Pryor have smoked Duran utilizing that relentless all out attack? or does he get separated from his senses, Ray Lampkin style?
How soon they forget. Aaron Pryor never fought anyone as remotely as good as Duran except Alexis who, although taller, was naturally smaller than Duran. There is no evidence Pryor wins. The only advantage he has is workrate. The Duran that beat Leonard clinically beats Pryor convincingly.
Actually allow me to amend that statement because the threadstarter asked about Duran in 78/79. The Duran that hammered Dejesus in fight 3 would have beaten Pryor convincingly. Pryors only advantage is workrate.
It would have been brutal, but Duran for sure. Better skills, grit, power, chin, experience. I love The Hawk, but Duran especially in those years, he'd get the better of Pryor, possibly even stop him.
Pryor was a real unknown in 1978/79. He won his JWW title in August 1980, the same day Hearns beat Cuevas. Pryor and Duran were negotiating to fight in 1981/82 at 150, but Pryor had managerial issues and turned down the fight. Duran wins a hard fought decision