Charley Burley vs Roberto Duran at 147.

I think this is a very intriguing match-up. There is some footage of Burley, so while limited, he is available for the eyeball test. Both have superb records, going up in weight and being successful where many thought they wouldn't be.

Duran will not be boxing this match. He needs to be a swarmer and force Burley to the ropes. Burley doesn't mind being on the ropes at times, and that gives Duran a chance to put his head on Burley's chest and utilize his infighting ability.

Burley has great footwork and reflexes. He counters, sets traps, rolls the shoulder, and feints a whole lot. He is good at confusing opponents who come forward, and has a good punch. Duran certainly will be coming forward, so that gives Burley a chance to utilize his skillset.

Both will be able to do what they want. Who is the classier operator?

 

First one to man up gets extra cool points!!

 

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Life would be infinitely happier if we could only be born at the age of eighty and gradually approach eighteen.

 

The Montreal version of Duran probably beats Burley, but not by much.

 

There is no way to life. Life is the way.

 

based on the burley footage i pick duran to outland and generally outwork him for the decision, but obviously the footage is very limited.

 

Roberto Duran was a lightweight during his prime years and wasn't nearly as good while fighting at a heavier weight later on. Yes, he continued to be a formidable fighter, but was far from being the dominant force that he was as a lightweight.

- Chuck Johnston

 

Burley would beat him similarly to Benitez did.

 

I agree with this...good take on this fight.
With that said though, in the 79'-80' time frame Duran would give the best ATG welters a good fight, and beat alot of them.

 

Agreed, it is hard to really judge Burley, as there is only one fight of his available, but he did easily knock out a fair heavyweight, which would be like Duran beating Chuck Wepner.

Duran was past his prime as a welter at 5'7. A better matchup is Duran - Armstrong.

 

Burley would win

 

That said he was still an exceptional fighter even at 147 up through Montreal .. the man that defeated Leonard and still fought him competitively in New Orleans till he quit was a hell of a fighter ..

 

This.

 

i think burley is a little too big and a little too slick for duran but it's close.