Duran vs DeJesus I: 40 years later, Duran's first loss
Posted: 18 Nov 2012, 00:04
On Friday, November 17th, 1972, at Madison Square Garden in NYC, Esteban De Jesus decisioned the world lightweight king Roberto Duran of Panama in a 10 round non-title affair. It was the first time that Duran in 32 fights ever been beaten and also the first time ever that Duran visit the canvas. Five months earlier, he took the crown from Ken Buchanan of Scotland in 13 controversial rounds.
De Jesus had the irony to be the first man ever to deck Duran in the canvas twice and also was the first fighter to fight Duran 3 times.
On fight number 1 of one of boxing's greatest trilogies, DeJesus on that night was terrific. He was also the only fighter, yes, the only fighter to beat Duran in his prime.
De Jesus had the irony to be the first man ever to deck Duran in the canvas twice and also was the first fighter to fight Duran 3 times.
On fight number 1 of one of boxing's greatest trilogies, DeJesus on that night was terrific. He was also the only fighter, yes, the only fighter to beat Duran in his prime.
