What if Roberto Duran instead of giving Leonard an immediate rematch In Nov. 1980. had fought a Welterweight unification match against WBA Champion Pipino Cuevas? Let's assume for this purposed Superbout Cuevas pulled out of his August defense against Thomas Hearns. 15 rounds for the Undisputed Welterweight Championship.
Duran by UD. Provided that Roberto is in the shape he was in Montreal, he would be a little too well-rounded for Pipino to overcome. Duran's technical skills and defensive prowess would rule the night, but Cuevas would always have a puncher's chance.
I always thought this fight at this time would've been a classic. By the time they actually fought, Duran had lost some of his speed and fire, and Cuevas' chin was gone. Still, it was a very interesting and exciting fight for as long as it lasted. I think a fight between them in their primes would follow roughly the same pattern, but extended over a longer distance.
Cuevas may of found a way to win this one. Duran would of thought of this as an easy match up after the Leonard, but Cuevas back then was I believe, the longest reigning alphabet title holder and despite what Tommy did to him, very impressive in that reign. An unmotivated partied out Duran probably sneaks it over 15, but I would not at all be surprised if he had to get off the canvas to do so. Duran WS15 143/141.....
Never ever rule out Pipino...but I think Roberto just always has a style and skill advantage over him. His awesome chin slims down Pipino's punchers chance, though its still very much there.
Duran still kills Cuevas in 4 rds at 147 in 1980....... Cuevas was never the skilled fighter that Duran was....... Never..... MR.BILL
I can't assume Cuevas ever beats Hearns. If he fought Duran instead of Hearns I believe Duran stops Cuevas around 10. Cuevas never beats Hearns or Duran IMO (outside of a punchers chance against Hearns).
