This content is protected Where would you rank Duran among the Top defensive fighters at lightweight or welter OAT?
It was better vs. smaller guys at light weight. Duran's defense was non existent vs Hearns, and rather open to Leonard in the 2nd fight in the welter weight classes. I'd say he had a decent defense for an attack oriented fighter who could land a counter punch. A good counter puncher is sort of rare, but that person has a built in defense as the attacker has to watch out for it, and is likely to throw because of it.
I agree with a lot of this...I do think Duran is better defensively than is mentioned because he is good at so much. Some of it might be the old adage of the best defense is a good offense.
Hearns made him reach. that was the problem. The jab was everything and then he reached and didn't bend under the punches.
Duran is a fantastic defensive fighter, even more fantastic given his style and aggression. Even when hit he is often riding with the punch.
