FILE – In this June 1981 file photo, middleweight champion Marvin Hagler holds the championship belt over his head after he defeated Vito Antuofermo in the fifth round of a boxing bout at Boston Garden in Boston. Hagler, the middleweight boxing great whose title reign and career ended with a split-decision loss to “Sugar” Ray Leonard in 1987, died Saturday, March 13, 2021. He was 66. (AP Photo, File)
Brockton boxing legend Marvelous Marvin Hagler died unexpectedly at age 66.
His wife, Kay Hagler, confirmed the death on Facebook last night. He died at his New Hampshire home. The circumstances of his death were not released.
Brockton Mayor Robert Sullivan says the boxing world suffered a devastating loss with Hagler’s passing.
“Marvelous Marvin Hagler and Rocky Marciano, that’s in essence, is why Brockton is called the City of Champions,” said Sullivan. “Just unbelievable athletes in the ring and outside of the ring. I just want to thank Marvin for what he did for the City of Brockton, the Commonwealth, the nation, and the world in the ring. Our prayers and thoughts go to his loving family members and survivors.”
Hagler was born in Newark, New Jersey, and moved to Brockton in the late 1960’s. The former undisputed middleweight champion from 1980 to 1987 fought some of his earliest matches at Brockton High School.
In 1984, Hagler opened a store in downtown Brockton with Hollywood Celebrities in attendance. Sullivan said he was able to get a picture with the southpaw champion.
“We watched every fight on TV, back then a lot of it was free. The Hearns fight was unbelievable, Antuofermo, and Mugabi. We watched them all,” said Sullivan. “It’s just a sad, sad time. It’s devastating for his family of course. His brother Rockin’ Robbie Sims is still in Brockton. His mother is still in Brockton. As Mayor, but more importantly as a boxing fan and a Brocktonian, we’re all truly saddened by his untimely passing.”
Hagler was discovered by Goody and Pat Petronelli, who trained him for his entire pro career.
Hagler’s 12-fight title defense and career ended with a controversial split decision loss to Sugar Ray Leonard in 1987.
Hagler also lived in Hanover, and owned a sportswear and novelty shop on Washington Street.
