Dead Hagler, Antuofermo: “Our beating and friendship challenges”

On the phone, Vito mixes his Italian imported from Palo del Colle (Bari) fifty-one years ago, just 16, with the Englishman from Brooklyn: “I found out ten minutes ago, the last time I saw him Marvin he was in great shape: in Boston, a couple of years ago, on the occasion of a party. Think, he was a year younger than me “, says in a sad voice Vito Antuofermo, 68 years old. And he adds: “My first challenge with him was the masterpiece of my career. Even today I think I won.” Instead, their first confrontation (the most famous), ended with a draw, at the end of a balanced battle of 15 rounds: Vito, however, mended the eyebrows with 70 points.

What relationship did she have with him?

“Excellent. We saw each other, we joked. He always tried to speak to me in Italian. He stirred a little: but he always tried. I’m sure that if he had lived near me, we would have been friends”.

Vito, what memories do you have from matches with him?

“I especially remember the blows I took (laughs). But we immediately respected each other: it is the beauty of our sport. The day after the match, my New York clan organized a party in my honor. Marvin and he introduced himself. I was very pleased to see him. “

How many times did you see that challenge of ’79? Agree with that parity verdict?

“Many times, with friends at my house. And we always smiled about that result. It was an equal, but I’m still sure I won. He definitely did better than me in the first ten to eleven rounds. But he didn’t win them. everyone. Then I did much better in the last few takes. Yes, I had won. “

It was said: Vito always comes forward regardless of his punches.

“That’s what so many people say. But if you look carefully, you will see that many shots I managed to dodge and many of your punches failed. That’s why the judges were sometimes wrong. Just like on that occasion.”

The second match in ’81 ended in injury in the 5th round.

“I wasn’t ready. I only accepted because my manager was sure I would beat him. One of his heads in the first round broke my arch: they knew it was the only way to stop me.”

Where does Hagler place in his ranking?

“He’s on top, on top of Leonard, Hearns, Duran, Minter. When he lost to Leonard, his last fight, Ray fled to the ring. He confessed that he didn’t want to do that match, but they offered him a bag he couldn’t give up. : more than 15 million dollars. More than what he had earned in his entire career. “