MARVIN HAGLER vs. JOHN MUGABI (Budweiser)  

Description : Here we have the super-rare 'Budweiser' official fight night sponsors closed circuit poster for the Undisputed World Middleweight Title. Caesars Palace, Las Vegas, USA. 10th March 1986.

Haglers next defence following that momentous victory over Thomas "Hitman" Hearns was Olympic silver medalist John Mugabi of Uganda, who was 26-0 with 26 knockouts and was ranked the number one contender by all three major bodies. The fight was fought on March 10, 1986 as Hagler had hurt his back and could not fight on the first date booked in 1985. Hagler stopped Mugabi in the 11th round of a brutal fight. Many ringside observers, including analyst Gil Clancy, noticed that Hagler was showing signs of advanced ring wear and age. He was much slower of hand and foot and seemed much easier to hit. He had also completely morphed his ring style from a slick, quick-fisted, boxer/puncher to a strictly flat-footed, stalking, slugger to compensate for his loss of speed and reflexes.

Hagler was now said to be seriously considering retirement. Hagler's promoter Bob Arum was quoted as saying he was expecting Hagler to retire in the face of being challenged by Sugar Ray Leonard...(he should have done!)

Postage: £10.00 Special Delivery...£20.00 International registered signed 4 airmail.