Roberto Durán, known as “Manos de Piedra” or “Hands of Stone.”He is considered one of the greatest boxers of all time. His five-decade career showcased his talent, resilience, and adaptability in the ring.
**Early Career and Lightweight Dominance**
Durán began his professional boxing career at the age of 16. He quickly gained recognition for his aggressive fighting style and powerful punches. In 1972, Durán defeated Ken Buchanan to win the WBA Lightweight title. Marking the beginning of his reign in the lightweight division. He defended this title multiple times, solidifying his status as an unstoppable force.
In 1980, Roberto Durán made a significant move to the welterweight division, where he faced and defeated the undefeated Sugar Ray Leonard in Montreal. This victory earned him the WBC Welterweight title and solidified his place in boxing history. However, in a highly anticipated rematch later that year, Durán famously surrendered in the eighth round, uttering “no más,” which translates to “no more.”
Continued Success Across Divisions
Durán’s boxing journey didn’t stop there. He continued to compete across various weight classes, capturing titles in the light middleweight and middleweight divisions. One of his most notable victories in these categories was against Iran Barkley in 1989. That’s when he secured the WBC Middleweight title with remarkable skill and determination.
Legacy and Retirement
Roberto Durán finally retired in 2001, having achieved an impressive record of 103 wins, 16 losses, and 70 knockouts. His career is celebrated for his tenacity and his ability to adapt to different weight classes. His incredible power in the ring has had a lasting influence on boxing. Roberto Duran’s story continues to inspire future generations.
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