Top trainer Freddie Roach has shared his thoughts on how a fantasy showdown between Pernell Whitaker and Roberto Duran would have played out.
Both men are widely regarded as being two of the greatest fighters to have ever graced the sport, proving their outstanding credentials throughout the course of their respective professional careers.
Whitaker, known by his moniker ‘Sweet Pea’, captured world titles across four weight classes throughout his 17-year tenure, including the undisputed lightweight championship which he held during 1991.
Duran rose to stardom during the 1980s where he became a member of the iconic ‘Four Kings‘, alongside former rivals Thomas Hearns, Marvin Hagler and Sugar Ray Leonard, sharing the ring with each of these legendary fighters on at least one occasions during his career.
Speaking to Boxing Social, top trainer Roach shared his verdict on what would have been an intriguing match-up between ‘Sweet Pea’ and Duran.
“You know Whitaker’s a great fighter, a great boxer. He has a lot of speed and so forth, Duran was just maybe a little bit too mean for him though, he would really dig down deep when he had to.
“I loved Duran in late rounds of fights where he’s won many fights outside of the 12th round. I mean you talk about when he is fighting in his prime, he was fighting 15 rounders, he’s won many fights [in the] 13th, 14th, 15th round, he turned up a notch, I’m gonna pick Duran.”
Duran was known for his high-pressure fighting style, which played a key role in him racking up a number of impressive victories over the likes of Sugar Ray Leonard, Iran Barkley and Ken Buchanan to name just a few.
