One of the great middleweights in boxing history, Mr. Hagler died March 13 at 66. Quiet with a brooding public persona, Mr. Hagler fought 67 times over 14 years as a pro out of Brockton, Mass., finishing 62-3-2 with 52 knockouts. Mr. Hagler was favored going into the fight, and many thought he would destroy Leonard — but Leonard had other plans. Still, when the bell rang at the end of the 12th round, many thought Mr. Hagler had triumphed — only to lose a controversial split decision. Mr. Hagler took the long route to greatness, fighting mostly in the Boston area before finally getting his chance at the 160-pound title in 1979.

Source: Washington Post March 14, 2021 00:36 UTC