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The Barkley win was great. Barkley wasn't, but it has much to do with the circumstances surrounding the fight. Barkley had flattened Hearns, who in turn had flattened Duran years previously, and the title win had made him more dedicated and confident than ever. He truly looked his best against Duran and looking at the fight, he may have had some potential at developing into a more technically sound puncher with a top trainer. A fun fact about Barkley, and one that Hearns always kept reminding him about, was that his sister actually taught him how to box. He wasn't the most refined boxer, far from it, but he did know how to throw that left hook.
Duran on the other hand was 37 years old, still competitive but only competitive. He was not supposed to be a winner at that point in his career. He was also a former lightweight, and physically it showed in his 160 lb fights. He carried a lot of excess weight but he worked himself into fine condition for the Barkley fight, knowing it was his last chance. A great win and a great fight it was.
Duran on the other hand was 37 years old, still competitive but only competitive. He was not supposed to be a winner at that point in his career. He was also a former lightweight, and physically it showed in his 160 lb fights. He carried a lot of excess weight but he worked himself into fine condition for the Barkley fight, knowing it was his last chance. A great win and a great fight it was.
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