Esteban DeJesus 'Top Ranked Lightweight'

Stevie G,

I believe that the New York State Athletic Commision stripped Robert Duran of
their version of the Lightweight Championship sometime in early-1973.

Madison Square Garden was trying to put together a Esteban De Jesus vs.
Ken Buchanan fight for the Lightweight Championship for late-1973.

It was right after he defeated Ray Lampkin the second time, in July 1973.

 

It was Roberto Duran who would only defend his Lightweight Championship
in Panama versus Esteban De Jesus.

Gregorio Benitez, Esteban's manager wanted $75,000 to go into Panama City,
otherwise 'no deal' in 1973. I think they were only offered $40,000, and it was
turned down.

Good for Gregorio on that one.

Esteban had some really good wins prior to fighting Roberto at Madison Square
Garden in November 1972, going 33-1-0 (18 KO's)

Armando Mendoza,,,,,,,,,(Later fought; Juan Jose Giminez, Calos Maria Giminez, Roberto Duran and Alfredo Escalara)
Victor Ortiz,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,(Later fought; Antonio Cervantes for the WBA Light-Welterweight Title)
Josue Marquez (3x),,,,,,,(Later fought; Antonio Cervantes for the WBA Light-Welterweight Title)
Leonel Hernandez
Percy Hayles
George Foster
Chuck Wilburn
Angel Robinson Garcia
Raymundo Dias,,,,,,,,,,,,,(Previously fought; Bruno Arcari for the WBC Light-Welterweight Title)