Duane Thomas (boxer)


Duane Thomas, was an American professional boxer in the super welterweight division. He was born in Detroit, Michigan.

Pro career

Thomas turned pro in 1979 and won the Vacant WBC Light Middleweight Title with a 3rd-round TKO over John Mugabi in 1986 at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. Thomas would lose the title eight months later, in Merignac, France, in his first defense to Lupe Aquino by decision. In 1988 he challenged WBC Light Middleweight Title holder Gianfranco Rosi, but was dominated and TKO'd in the 7th. He was an elite fighter during his era.

Death

Duane Thomas had just made a comeback after 11 years out of the ring, when he was murdered in Detroit over a drug dispute, in 2000.