RIP

Boxing legend Marvelous Marvin Hagler 

dead at 66

The former undisputed middleweight champion of the world’s widow announced his death on social media

By Bloody Elbow Mar 13, 2021

Marvin Hagler has passed away at age 66

 Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images

Marvelous Marvin Hagler, the former undisputed middleweight boxing champion of the world, has passed away at age 66. His wife Kay Hagler posted the sad news on Facebook today.

“I am sorry to make a very sad announcement. Today unfortunately my beloved husband Marvelous Marvin passed away unexpectedly at his home here in New Hampshire. Our family requests that you respect our privacy during this difficult time. With love, Kay Hagler.”

Hagler reigned over boxing’s middleweight division from 1980 to 1987, successfully defending his title 12 times. He lost his titles in a controversial decision to “Sugar” Ray Leonard. Hagler retired with a 62-3-2 record featuring 52 K0s.

Hagler defeated Thomas “Hitman” Hearns in April, 1985 in one of boxing’s most celebrated bouts. He also earned victories over Roberto Duran, John Mugabi, and Mustafa Hamsho.

Hagler took the middleweight title from Alan Minter in September, 1980.

He was born in New Jersey and raised in Massachusetts. He was a member of both the International Boxing Hall of Fame and World Boxing Hall of Fame. Hagler legally changed his named to Marvelous Marvin Hagler from Marvin Nathaniel Hagler in 1982.

Hagler was one of the first superstars of boxing’s pay cable era and helped make HBO a leader in the sport. He will be remembered by fight fans for his skill and ferocity.