Barry McGuigan vs Juan Laporte in a ten round non-title featherweight bout

Date: February 23, 1985

Venue: Kings Hall, Belfast

McGuigan stance: orthodox

Laporte stance: orthodox

Barry McGuigan turned pro in 1981 and suffered an early setback when he lost his third fight on points to Peter Eubank. In his 12th bout, McGuigan knocked out Young Ali in the sixth round, and Ali later died of his injuries. Three fights later, he won the British featherweight title by stopping Vernon Penprase in the second round. McGuigan won the vacant European title by knocking out Valerio Nati in the sixth round. He had a record of 25-1 with 23 KOs, and was looking for a win over a big name to propel him towards a world title shot.

Juan Laporte turned pro in 1977, and despite an early loss on points to complete no-hoper Jose Rodriguez, he made steady progress. in 1980, Laporte challenged Salvador Sanchez for the WBC featherweight title, losing on points. After winning his next four bouts, Laporte challenged Eusebio Pedroze for the WBA featherweight title, losing a close and controversial decision on points. in 1982, Laporte stopped Mario Miranda in the tenth round to win the vacant WBC title. After two successful defences, Laporte lost a ten round tune up fight to journeyman Gerald Hayes by majority decision. In his next fight, Laporte lost his title to Wilfredo Gomez on points. Laporte had a routine points win over Dwight Pratchett in his most recent fight.

For an in depth look at their respective records, visit:

Barry McGuigan - https://boxrec.com/en/proboxer/12746

Juan Laporte - https://boxrec.com/en/proboxer/2570