Hands of Stone

I rank Roberto Duran as the greatest lightweight ever. He debuted early 1968. Undefeated in first 31 fights, 28 inside the distance. He won the world title in 1972. He also lost for the first time that year in a non-title bout (against Esteban DeJesus, whom he twice defeated by knockout in rematches). He wouldn't lose again for eight years. He defended his lightweight title 12 times (a record), 11 inside the distance. He retired the lightweight title. With a record of 71-1 he took the welterweight title from Ray Leonard over 15 rounds in 1980. He overwhelmed Leonard with skill, speed, and power. Incapacitated by a stomach ailment, he surrendered the title to Leonard five months later. In 1983, he challenged Marvin Hagler for the world middleweight title. Hagler was the best middleweight ever, but Duran put up a hell of a fight over 15 rounds, losing a close decision. In 1989, with a record of 84-7 (defeats included losses to DeJesus, Leonard, Benitez, Hagler, and Hearns, five all-time greats), Duran outpointed Iran Barkley to win the middleweight title. He lost the title on points to Ray leonard over 12 rounds that same year. Duran fought on until 2001, doing well against top competition, but he won no more world titles. He retired 103-16 (70). Among his best wins are: Ken Buchanan, Dejesus, Carlos Palomino, Leonard, Pipino Cuevas, Davey Moore, and Barkley.