A BOXER who was born into poverty and grew up in a slum defied the odds to become a world-champion fighter and multi-millionaire.
Roberto Duran scooped titles at lightweight, welterweight, light middleweight and middleweight in a iconic fighting career spanning over 30 years.
The legendary Roberto Duran in 1973
The Panamanian is one of boxing’s greatest ever fighters
Duran, 72, is considered by many as the greatest lightweight boxer of all time as well as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in boxing history.
He racked up an astonishing pro record of 103-16 during his time in the ring, with 70 wins coming via knockout.
But the boxer – famously known as ‘The Hands of Stone’ – did not have an easy route to the big time.
Duran grew up in the slums of El Chorrillo, steps away from the Panama Canal.
Born into a life of poverty, he shined shoes and sold newspapers from the age of five to help support his family.
Growing up in Chorillo, a tough district, he had to learn to fight to survive from a very young age.
In the tough neighbourhood, Duran wanted to stay in one piece, according to The Ring magazine.
The boxing legend felt he was too young to die and developed his trademark tenacity and courage by learning to fight hard.
Duran’s own words in the documentary film ‘I am Duran’, on the reason he became a boxer were: “My family didn’t have money to eat, we slept in an entrance way, that’s why I became a boxer.”
Duran, who fought professionally from 1968 to 2001, enjoys legendary status in Panama and Latin America.
The retired Panamanian boxer reportedly boasts a net worth of US$3 million according to Celebrity Net Worth.
However, his net worth could be much higher, but Duran reportedly blew through more than $20 million during the peak of his career on a lavish lifestyle.
His finest performance arguably came against Sugar Ray Leonard in the 1980 Montreal match up when he became WBC welterweight champ.
But their second fight months later was one of the most lucrative fights in boxing history at the time.
Duran withdrew midway through the clash by famously saying “No mas” — “No more.”
However, Duran still earned a reported US$7 million for the rematch.
Duran’s last fight was a defeat on points to Hector Camacho in July 2001.
After a number of premature retirements in the 1980s and 90s, Duran retired for good in early 2002 following a car crash in Argentina.
During his career, the second-longest of any boxer in history, the 5ft 7in superhero inspired a downtrodden nation and redefined what it meant to be a fighter.
A movie, titled on his nickname, was released in 2016 on his career, which was directed and written by Jonathan Jakubowicz.
Duran was inducted into the World Boxing Hall of Fame in 2006 and the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2007.
Duran’s greatest victory was arguably against Sugar Ray Leonard in Montreal
Roberto Duran in 1973 ahead of a fight against Juan Medina in California
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a left hook and a right cross?
A left hook is thrown from the side of the body while a right cross is thrown from the front of the body.
A left hook can be thrown with the opponent’s back facing you. The elbow is bent 90 degrees and the wrist is turned 45 degrees toward the opponent.
A right cross is thrown with the palm facing the opponent’s face and the elbow straight. The opponent’s wrist is rotated 45 degrees to the side.
How long does it take for a professional boxer to become one?
Professional boxing requires years of dedication and hard work. To become a professional fighter, you will need to devote at least 10 hours per weeks to training.
What are the 7 punches used in boxing?
There are seven boxing punches. They include jab and cross, hook and uppercut, straight right and left hook, as well as body shot. These punches attack the opponent’s head or body.
How can a beginner start boxing at home?
Boxing is one among the oldest sports known to mankind. Boxing was created in ancient times to help warriors fight off their enemies. Today, boxing is widely practiced all over the world. You don’t even need to go to a gym to box. A pair of gloves, punching bags and a few sparring buddies are all you need.
You can also find local amateur boxing clubs where you can join and get trained by professional coaches. Once you’ve mastered basic punches and combinations, you’ll be ready to compete in tournaments.
What are the potential benefits of learning to Box?
If you want to learn how to box, then you should consider the following reasons:
- It increases confidence. Learning to box will give you the courage to face bullies or other people who might try to bully you.
- It is good for your health. Boxing helps build muscle mass. Muscle mass makes you stronger.
- It teaches you self defense skills. Learning how to fight is the first step to protecting yourself.
- It builds mental toughness. Mental toughness is important when you’re facing challenges.
- It can give you a feeling of accomplishment. You’ll feel like a true boxer once you master a technique.
- It’s fun! Nothing is better than being punched in the stomach.
- It’s cheap. All you need are a pair of punching bags and boxing gloves.
- It doesn’t need much space
Are you able to learn how to box?
You can box if you want. Find a local boxing gym and sign up for a class. You will find most gyms offering free classes. However, if there isn’t one near you, you can always search Google for local boxes clubs.
Also, you will need equipment such as gloves, mouthpiece, headgear, sparring partners, and headgear. Once you’ve got all of that, you can begin practicing your punches and kicks.
Where can I buy boxing gear?
Many online stores sell boxing equipment. Some of these include Amazon, eBay, Walmart, Target, and Sports Authority. If you’re looking for cheap boxing gear, then you might want to check out discount stores like Ross or TJ Maxx.
You might consider purchasing quality gear from respected brands such as Warrior, Golden Glove and Premier Boxing Champions if you are looking for high-quality boxing gear.
Statistics
- It is just like normal sparring with a partner, but you want to throw punches at 75% of your normal speed. (wikihow.com)
- You want to be running at roughly 75-80% of your top speed..5 mile slow, easy recovery jog at the end.[6]X Research source 2Mix in long runs, shadow boxing, and short sprints on non-interval days. (wikihow.com)
External Links
boxandflow.com
expertboxing.com
How To
How to setup a Boxing Gym at my House
A common question that people ask is how to set up a gym for boxing. Many people want to know how much they should spend on equipment and what size space is required. How many employees are needed? There are many factors that can affect the cost of starting your business. Some of them include location, type of business, number of employees, marketing budget, competition etc. The importance of having quality equipment is something that many people forget. You cannot begin if you don’t own the right equipment. Here are some helpful tips if you want to open a boxing studio in your own home.
- Training should be done in a safe environment. Anyplace you can train is fine, whether it’s in your garage, basement, spare or living area. The only requirement is that there must be enough space to set up the equipment.
- You need a punching bag (or two). It is crucial because you will not be able practice punches if you don’t have a punching bag. It can be anything from a cheap plastic bag to a heavy leather bag. Make sure that it is big enough to fit you comfortably. You will also want it to last for many years.
- You will need a pad. Matting is used for protecting floors and walls during kick practice. It is usually made out of foam rubber. They can be bought online or offline stores.
- You need a bench. You can use a bench to support your body when you are doing pushups. You can buy them online or in-store. You should ensure that you select the right size.
- A speedbag is essential. Speedbags are useful for developing quick hand movements. They can be purchased online or in stores. Make sure that you buy a quality product which will last long.
- A headgear will be necessary. Headgear is used to protect your head during sparring sessions. You can purchase it online or in stores. Make sure you get something that fits and protects your face.
- Gloves are essential. Gloves can be used to protect your hands while sparring. These gloves can be bought online or in stores. Pick the pair that suits you best.
- You will need a mouthpiece. Mouthpieces are used to protect your teeth during sparring sessions. You can purchase these online or offline stores. You should choose the pair that best suits you and your needs.
- Rings are essential. Rings can be used for simulating real fights. They can be purchased offline or online stores. So that you don’t get injured during sparring, ensure it has padding both sides.
- Towels are essential. To wipe your sweat off after every workout, use a towel. These towels can be bought at your local sporting goods store, or online. Make certain that they are soft and absorbent.
