The universe continues to take legends away from the world as we make our way through 2021. On March 13, 2021, Marvelous Marvin Hagler passed away unexpectedly at the age of 66. Considered by many to be the greatest middleweight boxer of all time and, many true boxing fans’ favorite, let’s take a closer look at Marvelous.
- Born in New Jersey but moved to Massachusetts after the Newark riots.
- Hagler was of Cape Verdian descent and was fluent in Portuguese.
- Lied about his age in order to compete prior to turning 16. The truth was not known until he was 28.
- Annoyed that some announcers did not refer to him by his nickname, he legally changed his name to Marvelous Marvin Hagler.
- In his early career, Hagler found it difficult to find opponents willing to face him as he was known to be both good and a southpaw which made him a challenge.
- Hagler is said to have one of the greatest chins in boxing history as he had only been knocked down once in his entire pro career.
- He finished his career 52-3.
- He was the undisputed middleweight champion from 1980-1987 and defended his title 12 times.
- His knockout percentage while champion was 78% which is a record among middleweight champs.
- In 1987, Hagler fought Sugar Ray Leonard and lost a much disputed decision and his title. He asked for a rematch but when Leonard refused and retired, so did Hagler.
- After retirement, Hagler took a shot at acting in Italian films and moved to Italy.
- He met his second wife in Italy and lived in Milan although he owned a home in New Hampshire.
- Inducted into the Boxing Hall of Fame (World and International) in 1993.
- His cause of death at time of publishing is unknown but his wife stated he had recently had the COVID vaccine.
- Celebrities from Mike Tyson to Joe Rogan offered their condolences and respect for Hagler after his death was made public.