Fighting giants Sugar Ray Leonard and Roberto Duran had one of the most famous rivalries in boxing history. The two pugilists have fought three times in the ring, and fans have relished each punch thrown by these boxers. Their first fight took place on June 20, 1980, at the Montreal Olympic Stadium in Canada.

Moreover, it was a spectacular fight between two of the most well-known punchers of the time. The entire stadium was set on fire as the two combatants settled scores inside the ring. Fans still remember and cherish the bout, and here’s what they have to say about it.

The battle was a stunning sight, with powerful attacks and exceptional tactical expertise. The clash was as close as a razor-thin margin, however, the Panamanian wonder was proclaimed champion.

The fierce rivalry between Sugar Ray Leonard and Roberto Duran 

The first combat was a nail-biter, and it was clear that a sequel was in due. Duran and Leonard met again in November of the same year. The match was held in the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Billed as ‘the Super Fight’, it was one of the most anticipated battles at the time. It further gained popularity to be remembered as the ‘No Mas Fight’. Surprisingly, Duran cued the referee by saying, “No mas (Spanish for no more).” Eventually, Sugar won the bout regaining his titles. 

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In addition, this didn’t stop here. After almost 9 years, the giants returned to the ring. Both the warriors have previously defeated each other, so this was a contest of wills. On December 7, 1989, the Mirage Hotel in Las Vegas was packed with thousands of people eager to see this historic match.

Furthermore, Leonard was the welterweight champion at the time, and it was a battle for the title. However, it was more of a resumption of a long-running rivalry. Leonard (33) and Duran (38) competed in the ring to prove their prowess.

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In the end, Leonard surprised everyone by winning the fight against a lackluster Duran and kept his championships. People’s memories of the rivalry are still fresh, and fans frequently relive those fights. Meanwhile, what are your thoughts on this spectacular clash? Let us know your opinions in the comments section below.