Why Greatness May Elude Hagler and Monzon

Jim Amato

06.09 - The middleweight division is second only to the heavyweight in glamour and prestige. "The Nonpareil" Jack Dempsey, Ketchal, Greb, Walker, Zale, Robinson, and Basilio have all graced this legendary division. The last two boxers who have been elevated to the mantle of greatness in this class were Carlos Monzon and Marvin Hagler, yet each boxer failed to do the one thing that may have cemented their ultimate link with the Gods of boxing. It also denied the fans of the two potentially exciting battles.

Greb, Walker, Zale, Robinson, Basilio, Tiger and Griffith all stepped out of their natural weight class to cross gloves with larger men for and glory. Greb had Tunney, Ketchel had Johnson, Walker had Sharkey and Schmeling, Zale had Conn, Robinson had Maxim. Sugar Ray Basilio and Griffith all moved up from welterweight and Tiger eventually captured the light heavyweight crown. Why then did Monzon and Hagler elect not to challenge their heavier con-temporaries? A 1973 version of Bob Foster was not the kayo machine of the late 60's. Instead of meeting Griffith, Briscoe and Bouttier in re-runs, why not challenge Foster? Carlos was more than willing to entertain the challenge of "smaller" Jose Napoles.

Michael Spinks wanted to fight Hagler. He even challenged Marvin in a couple of boxing publications. Still Marvin found it easier and very profitable to take on the likes of Duran, Hearns and Leonard.

The three ex-welterweight kings provided Hagler with prime time exposure and mega-paydays. He probably would have fought Benitez too if Wilfred would have defeated Hamsho. Its too bad we weren't given the opportunity to witness Foster-Monzon and Spinks-Hagler. Great fighters make great fights. They could have been classics.