Rumor was that he was murdered by the Sandinistas , I'd probably agree, who commits suicide by shooting themselves in the chest?
Arguello was one of the best to ever lace them on. He did it with a class and grace rarely seen in world class boxing. When I think about Arguello in my mind I see text book and destructive straight right hands, and devastating body attacks that left so many withering helpless on the canvas in excruciating pain.
My memory of Arguello is the lesson he handed out to my favourite lightweight, Jim Watt in a World title fight. We Watt supporters knew Jim had next to no chance, but we cheered him on to what would have been a massive upset. Anyway Alex did what Alex did and basically boxed Jim’s ears off in what was a great performance. Jim lasted the full 15 rounds though, and after his loss, he retired from boxing shortly afterwards. Only Jim’s mental strength, determination and stubbornness kept him going to the very end in what was a boxing masterclass from Arguello. Arguello was a great fighter and I’m glad I got to see him fight.
Sad how his later life turned out. A great no doubt and someone who had among the prettiest punches in the game.
So did I in person on Jan 20 1980 against Ruben Castillo, in Alexis Arguello's defense of his WBC Junior Lightweight Title.
