Sugar Ray Leonard vs. Roberto Duran III: Who Really Won?
Sugar Ray Leonard secured a convincing victory over Roberto Duran in their third encounter, commonly known as the “No Más” fight. However, the nature of Duran’s surrender, quitting in the eighth round, sparked lasting controversy and debate regarding the fight’s narrative and true outcome.
The Shadow of Montreal: Rematch Fever and Redemption
The rivalry between Sugar Ray Leonard and Roberto Duran remains one of the most captivating in boxing history, fueled by contrasting styles, intense personalities, and a series of unforgettable battles. Their first encounter in Montreal, June 1980, saw Duran, a relentless pressure fighter known as “Hands of Stone,” dethrone the flashy, technically brilliant Leonard with a dominant performance. Leonard, unaccustomed to Duran’s brutal inside fighting, lost his composure and, ultimately, the WBC Welterweight title.
The immediate rematch in November 1980, just five months later, was a complete reversal. Leonard, having learned his lesson, danced and taunted Duran, frustrating the Panamanian legend and neutralizing his power. The infamous moment came in the eighth round when Duran, apparently fed up with Leonard’s antics, turned to the referee and uttered the words, “No Más,” effectively quitting the fight. This victory granted Leonard his title back but left a stain of controversy and unfulfilled resolution hanging over their rivalry.
The Long Road to Super Fight III
After their second fight, both men pursued different paths. Leonard retired briefly, citing an eye injury, before returning to boxing. Duran continued to fight, experiencing mixed success and battling weight issues. Years passed, but the lure of a lucrative third encounter, coupled with the burning desire to settle their unfinished business, proved irresistible. The fight was announced in 1989, setting the stage for a long-awaited trilogy showdown.
The Contract and the Controversy: A Battle of Wills Before the First Bell
Even before entering the ring, the fight was marked by intense negotiations and psychological warfare. Leonard, still haunted by the Montreal loss and aware of Duran’s formidable punching power, demanded a hefty purse and insisted on drug testing, a relatively novel requirement at the time. Duran, eager to prove his “No Más” defeat was an aberration, agreed to Leonard’s demands, though not without considerable grumbling and further fuelling the animosity between the two fighters.
Inside the Ring: A Technical Masterclass or Another Fluke?
The third fight took place on December 7, 1989, in Las Vegas. Leonard, now 33, demonstrated superior ring generalship and technical skill. He used his jab effectively, controlled the distance, and frustrated Duran with his movement and footwork. While Duran had his moments, landing some solid punches, he lacked the stamina and explosiveness of his younger self. Leonard consistently outboxed Duran, accumulating points round after round.
The judges’ scorecards reflected Leonard’s dominance: 119-109, 116-112, and 118-110, all in favor of Leonard. Although Duran finished the fight on his feet, unlike the “No Más” incident, he was clearly beaten. This victory firmly cemented Leonard’s claim as the superior fighter in their series.
Legacy and Debate: More Than Just a Fight
The “No Más” fight and its subsequent third encounter have become enduring symbols of boxing’s drama and complexity. While Leonard’s victory in their third fight is undisputed, the nature of Duran’s earlier surrender continues to spark debate and discussion among boxing fans and historians. It raised questions about pride, honor, and the psychological toll of the sport. Regardless of one’s interpretation, the Leonard-Duran trilogy remains a testament to the enduring power of rivalry and the captivating spectacle of boxing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What was the official result of Sugar Ray Leonard vs. Roberto Duran III?
The official result was a unanimous decision victory for Sugar Ray Leonard. All three judges scored the fight in his favor.
Why is Sugar Ray Leonard vs. Roberto Duran III called “Super Fight III”?
The fight was heavily promoted and marketed as a highly anticipated event, adding to the hype surrounding the long-standing rivalry between the two boxing legends. “Super Fight” designation was common during that era for significant boxing matches.
Did Roberto Duran quit in the third fight like he did in the second?
No, Roberto Duran finished the fight on his feet. He lost by unanimous decision, but he did not utter “No Más” or otherwise quit during the bout.
How did Sugar Ray Leonard change his strategy from the first to the third fight against Duran?
Leonard learned from his mistakes in the first fight, where he tried to brawl with Duran. In the third fight, he focused on using his superior boxing skills, footwork, and jab to control the distance and outbox Duran.
What was Duran’s condition heading into the third fight with Leonard?
Duran was older and past his prime by the time of their third fight. He also struggled with weight issues throughout his career, which may have impacted his stamina and performance in the later stages of his career.
Was there a fourth fight between Leonard and Duran?
Yes, a fourth fight did occur, in December 1989. Leonard also won this fight via a unanimous decision.
Did the “No Más” incident affect Duran’s performance in the third fight?
It’s impossible to say definitively how the “No Más” incident affected Duran. However, it’s likely that it played a role in his mental state and motivation heading into the third fight, perhaps adding extra pressure or a desire for redemption.
What weight class was the third Leonard vs. Duran fight in?
The third fight between Leonard and Duran was contested at the Super Middleweight weight class.
What was the significance of Leonard demanding drug testing for the third fight?
Leonard’s insistence on drug testing reflected a growing concern about performance-enhancing drugs in boxing. It also demonstrated Leonard’s leverage in negotiations and his desire to ensure a fair fight.
How did the third fight affect the overall legacy of Leonard and Duran?
The third fight solidified Leonard’s legacy as a versatile and adaptable fighter, capable of adjusting his style to defeat different opponents. While the fight didn’t diminish Duran’s overall accomplishments, it reinforced the perception that Leonard was the superior boxer in their rivalry.
Where did the third fight, “Super Fight III” take place?
The “Super Fight III” between Sugar Ray Leonard and Roberto Duran took place in Las Vegas, Nevada.
How did Duran’s corner respond to the loss following their third fight?
Following the loss, Duran’s corner expressed disappointment but acknowledged Leonard’s superior performance. Some corner members also suggested that Duran’s age and physical condition may have been factors in the defeat, suggesting his best days were behind him.