They always just bring up their first fight. I admit that Duran fought like a beast, insane in fighting abilities, and psychologically gave Leonard a God damn ass whipping. Still, Leonard came back and took Duran's soul. In the second fight embarrassed him so bad Duran QUIT. I don't hold their 3rd fight in high regards. Duran was 38, and it was at a ridiculous weight. It's always just about their 1st fight.... very disrespectful to Mr.Leonard. Their 2nd bout was just as intensifying up to the point of the TKO.
The second fight gets talked of. "No mas" has practically entered the english language...its probably in Websters.
Second fight was a complete wash for Leonard. Duran expected a continuation of the first fight... Wrong. Fun Fact: Duran had the "Bubblies" (The shitz)
Leonard himself admitted to asking for am instant rematch because he knew Duran would pack on tremendous weight hence giving him a disadvantage by him having trouble trying to drop back down, he felt he couldn't beat a 100% Duran so he needed an edge, and didn't give him a third fight until until a long time after his prime, fact is he feard a prime 100% Duran.
He ate a family sized bag of Lay's potato chips doused with TAPATIO® that day. That's some painful **** a few hours on. :verysad
Because Leonard is clearly the better fighter of the two. the lesser fighter winning is gonna get more attention. Duran was overrated as a fighter IMO. got whooped by each of the other 3 of the fab four. but his accomplishments are undeniable.
Leonard himself admitted to asking for am instant rematch because he knew Duran would pack on tremendous weight hence giving him a disadvantage by him having trouble trying to drop back down, he felt he couldn't beat a 100% Duran so he needed an edge, and didn't give him a third fight until until a long time after his prime, fact is he feard a prime 100% Duran.
or maybe Leonard just wanted to avenge his first loss because deep down he knew he was the better fighter? any real champion would want to do the same.
Nope Leonard has said that him and his brother thought of offering him the rematch as soon as possible because he partied hard after fights. He knew there was an advantage in ferrying him in the ring again asap.
Leonard could've and should've laid a much more physical beating on Duran in New Orleans. The fact that he rarely even let his hands go makes it kind of sour. I think even Kalule was a better win regardless of Duran's name recognition -- In addition to Hearns, Hagler and Benitez.
