DURAN, ROBERTO-ESTEBAN DEJESUS I WIRE PHOTO (1972)

JoSportsInc

Regular price $150.00

HISTORY: The first Duran vs De Jesus clash took place on November 17, 1972 at Madison Square Garden in New York. Their ten-round, non-title fight would be the headliner for a Garden card that also featured future Duran opponent, Vilomar Fernandez. What the crowd of ten thousand saw next would be history in the making and the catalyst for one of the greatest feuds in lightweight history. Before the opening bell, attention was given to the featured guests of the night, Willie Pep and Sandy Saddler. Two of boxing’s greatest barely got to their seats when the fireworks first went off, as less than 30 seconds in Esteban landed a perfectly timed left hook. For the first time in his career, Duran’s backside felt the canvas. Roberto was up at the count of six, both embarrassed and hurt and the damage was done. He never fully recovered from the shock of that first knockdown. In the rounds that followed the typically active and aggressive Duran appeared flat-footed and disinterested, either unable or unwilling to fully commit to the offensive onslaught he was known for, while Esteban took control. When the final bell rang, everyone, including Duran, appeared to know the outcome and Roberto retreated to his corner in disgust. The scores rendered by judges Harold Lederman (3-6) and Bill Recht (2-6) fell in line with that of referee Arthur Mercante (4-5). Roberto Duran had suffered his first defeat. Offered here is a scarce, original wire photo which depicts action during this fight.

FULL DESCRIPTION: This is an original wire photo with publication label on back. Bold, clear image. Clean front and back. Not creased or torn. Minor corner wear. 6 3/4" x 9 1/4."

Size: 6 3/4 x 9 1/4

Condition: excellent