Named Boxer of the Decade for the 1980’s by Boxing Illustrated, “Marvelous” Marvin Hagler’s reign of 6 years and 7 months as undisputed middleweight champion was the second longest such run of the 20th century. Many experts consider Hagler to have had the greatest “chin” ever- he was never knocked out in a professional fight, and rarely dazed. Born in Newark, New Jersey, Hagler moved to Brockton, MA following the 1967 race riots that destroyed his family’s tenement building. At 15, Hagler began training at the Petronelli Brothers gym. As the hometown of undefeated champ Rocky Marciano, Brockton was already steeped in boxing lore.

Hagler’s early career was a test of willpower- he had a hard time getting fights with high profile opponents, and when he did he frequently found himself on the short end of questionable outcomes. This “tough luck” continued in his first title shot. After 15 rounds with champ Vito Antuofermo at Caesar’s Palace, it seemed assured that Hagler would lay claim to his first title. Even referee Mills Lane congratulated him before the decision was announced. Once again, the scorecards went against him. Hagler would have to wait 10 months before his next shot against new champ Alan Minter. When asked whether he thought he could get a fair shake from the judges at last, Hagler held up both fists and stated simply “This time, I’m bringing my own two judges with me.” Hagler was true to his word, pummeling the Englishman into a bloody pulp in a match fueled by Minter’s racially charged comments.

Fortunately, Hagler was the kind of guy who could take an opportunity and run with it. The victory over Minter began an incredible run of 12 straight successful title defenses, leaving Hagler near the top of the list of greatest middleweights ever.