Duane Thomas (boxer)
Duane Thomas (born February 1, 1961 in Detroit, MI, died June 2000), was a professional boxer in the super welterweight (154 lb) division.
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.
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| Preceded by Thomas Hearns Vacated |
WBC Light Middleweight boxing champion 5 Dec 1986–12 Jul 1987 |
Succeeded by Lupe Aquino |