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4:28 p.m. PT – One of Hagler’s sons, James, tells TMZ her father was taken to a New Hampshire hospital earlier Saturday after experiencing difficulty breathing and chest pain at home.
We are told that about four hours later the family was notified of his death. A cause of death is still unknown at this point … it is also unclear whether Hagler’s death is related to COVID.
Wonderful Marvin Hagler – former middleweight champion and one of the greatest boxers who ever lived – died … this according to his wife.
A message with the sad news was posted on Hagler’s official Facebook fan club page on Saturday, reading … “I’m sorry to make a very sad announcement. Today, unfortunately, my beloved husband, Marvelous Marvin, has passed away suddenly at his home here in New Hampshire. Our family ask you to respect our privacy during this difficult time. “
The note was signed by his wife, Kay. The exact circumstances of his death have not been disclosed.
Hagler has gone down in history as a great boxer, and perhaps one of the best – if not THE best – middleweight fighters to step into the ring. He held the undisputed world middleweight title from 1980 to 1987 … an incredible race.
He got his first title shot in 79 v Vito Antuofermo – which was called a toss, despite feeling Hagler had taken it. He got a second chance at the title the following year … this time against Alan minter – that Hagler pounded in a save on lap 3.
Year after year, Hagler successfully defended his title … but one of the most brutal fights to date ended up being against Tommy Hearns in 1985, which was billed as “war”. It only lasted three rounds, but all were brutal … especially the opening one, which is considered one of the most violent and action-packed to date.
Hagler’s reign ended in 1987 against none other than the boxing icon Sugar ray leonard, who came out of retirement for another title shot. They went all twelve rounds, and although many said Hagler got the better of SRL … the latter was announced as the winner in a split decision. Granted, Leonard landed a higher punch percentage.
After boxing, Hagler began a career in cinema … in Italy no less. He has notably starred in ‘Indio’ and ‘Indio 2’ as well as in a few other action films. He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1993.
Hagler is survived by his current wife and five children from a previous marriage. He was 66 years old.
REST IN PEACE
Originally posted – 3:53 PM PT
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