Marvin Hagler, undisputed middleweight champion from 1980–87, died on Saturday. He was 66.
Hagler’s wife Kaye announced her demise on the verified Marvelous Marvin Hagler Fan Club Facebook page.
“I am sorry to make a very sad announcement,” she wrote. “Today unfortunately my dear husband Marvelous Marvin passed away unexpectedly at his home in New Hampshire. Our family is requested to respect our privacy in this difficult time.”
The reason for his death was not known at the time of publication of this article.
Born in Newark, NJ, on May 23, 1954, Hagler boxed during his teens on May 23, 1954, after his family moved to Brockton, Mass.
Hagler set a record of 62–3–2 with 52 knockouts during his career leading up to 1973–87. Beginning his career 26–2–1, Hegler went on a 36–0–1 run and unceremoniously captured the middleweight crown in 1980, stopping Alan Minor in the third round of his fight. The fighter affectionately known as “Marvelous”. The likes of Roberto Duran and John Mugabi, and on April 15, 1985, stopped Thomas Herners in a three-round historic war.
In 1987, Hegler retired after losing a highly controversial split decision to “Sugar” Ray Leonard. He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame and the World Boxing Hall of Fame in 1983.
He had five children with his first wife, Bertha. He married his second wife Kay in 2000, after relocating to Milan, Italy.
Hagler leaves a legacy as one of the greatest fighters in boxing history and arguably the greatest middleweight to ever compete.
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