True but like the great champion he was, Hagler won by TKO in the 2nd round of their rematch after losing a Majority Decision in their first fight in Watts' hometown.
Yes they were blessed with talent in the division. Hagler also TKO'd Monroe twice after losing to him by decision the first time they met, although I'm pretty sure you already knew that. Were you from that area or just a fan?
That must have been amazing. I remember watching a lot of fights from The Blue, There was a time when I lived and breathed boxing and the Philly gyms were known for their toughness, and produced some great fighters.
Matthew Saad Muhammad was a fighter that I used to love to watch. What a warrior. Bernard Hopkins was another one of those tough as nails type of fighter. Too many more to list but those two were right off the top of my head and loved watching both of them.
Knew about Saad's upbringing but had never heard about his final years. Sad and boxing is unfortunately littered with those stories. Went to quite a few matches on Miami Beach in the 80's and one of the legends they would introduce from time to time was Beau Jack. This legendary fighter was shining shoes for money at that time. Another thing that is sad is that I can't even tell you the last time I saw a boxing match, even on TV.
