Iran Barkley defended his WBC middleweight title against Roberto Duran
Date: February 24, 1989
Venue: Convention Hall, Atlantic City, New Jersey
Barkley stance: orthodox
Duran stance: orthodox
Iran Barkley turned pro in 1982, and after 12 bouts his record was a modest 9-3. He then went on a run of 13 consecutive wins, with the best results being an eighth round stoppage of Wilford Scypion and a points win over James Kinchen. This progress earned him a shot at the vacant WBA middleweight crown, but he lost on points to Sumbu Kalambay. Barkley won his next two bouts and challenged Thomas Hearns for his WBC middleweight belt. Barkley won by third round knockout when seemingly being on the verge of being knocked out himself.
Roberto Duran first fought for the middleweight title when he challenged Marvin Hagler for all the belts in 1983. Duran lost a fairly close and competitive points decision. Seven months later, Duran fought Thomas Hearns for the WBC light middleweight title and got destroyed in two rounds. Duran had a couple of easy knockout wins against journeymen in his native Panama before stepping up in class to face Hagler's brother Robbie Sims. Duran's split decision loss seemed to confirm he couldn't quite beat the bigger guys. Duran then had five wins against journeymen and fringe contenders that set him up for one more shot at a title.
For an in depth look at their respective records, visit:
Iran Barkley - https://boxrec.com/en/proboxer/447
Roberto Duran - https://boxrec.com/en/proboxer/000080
